After building a successful career in film as an art director and production designer, Lucy Du (MFA '25) arrived at the University of Lethbridge with a desire to reimagine storytelling through live performance.
Blending a strong foundation in visual art with a growing passion for theatre design, Lucy's graduate experience became a space to experiment, question perception and explore how visual illusion can shape the way audiences see and understand the world on stage.
Meet Lucy.
Medal won: School of Graduate Studies Medal of Merit - Master of Fine Arts
Program: Master of Fine Arts | Major: Dramatic Arts
Images: Lucy's set design for Paradise Lost by Erin Shields, 2025.
Describe your ULethbridge experience in three words.
Transformative. Supportive. Inspiring.
Why did you choose ULethbridge for your graduate studies?
After many years working in film as an art director and production designer, I wanted to explore storytelling through live performance and scenic design. ULethbridge offered the opportunity to combine my background in visual art, painting and theatre.
What did your research and/or thesis work encompass?
My thesis explored visual illusion in theatre design and how different perspectives can change what we see and understand.
What drew you to your program?
Theatre design interested me because it uses space, images and performance to tell stories.
Did you have an experiential learning opportunity that deepened your work?
Yes. I worked as a teaching assistant and led community art workshops, which gave me opportunities to apply my artistic practice in both educational and community settings.
Were there any courses, professors, or experiences that changed your perspective?
My supervisor, Julia Wasilewski (BA '05, BFA - Multidisciplinary '07), had a profound impact on me. She always encouraged me to see multiple perspectives and approach challenges with curiosity rather than fear.
What does this academic recognition mean to you?
This recognition affirms the hard work, growth and artistic development that took place throughout my graduate studies.
What is the most important lesson you learned during your time at ULethbridge?
Don't overthink it — start making. The process itself will show you what works, what doesn't, and where to go next.
What are your plans for the future?
I hope to continue exploring visual illusion and perception through theatre design while contributing to more productions in Canada.
What advice would you give to those who are about to begin their journey at ULethbridge? What would you tell your first-year self?
Stay curious, take creative risks and trust the process. Some of the most valuable discoveries come from unexpected directions.
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