RISD Grad Show

a student installs a piece suspending from the ceiling that is made up of colorful scraps of fabric

A massive public exhibition of work by students about to earn their RISD master's degrees, the annual graduate thesis exhibition is the culmination of each student's unique experience at RISD.

The show transforms a large space into a network of smaller galleries, affording students an opportunity to showcase multiple pieces from their final body of thesis work.

RISD Grad Show 2025

Featuring work by this year’s graduating class of advanced degree candidates, RISD Grad Show 2025 highlights the creativity that students exhibit at all stages of the thesis process, from sketches and drafts to completed works.

image shot from above of crowded opening night

Join us for Commencement

The graduate thesis exhibition is part of the lead-up to Commencement, our fun, colorful celebration of the newest art and design standouts to complete their RISD journey. In addition to the commencement ceremony, you’ll find other exhibitions on campus, academic department gatherings and more.

Commencement 2025 details

Past thesis exhibitions

Get to know RISD

graduate student gives a presentation of their project to a panel
Graduate study

Research, experiment and push the possibilities of practice with RISD’s community of advanced degree students.

Two arch students laughing in studio in front of computer.
Graduate admissions

Challenge your ideas and broaden your point of view alongside our community of makers.