For more than two decades, alumni from Alberta University of the Arts have helped shape the look and feel of the Calgary Underground Film Festival (CUFF). Behind many of the festival’s most memorable posters is a throughline of AUArts-trained artists —designers, illustrators and creatives whose work continues to define and energize Calgary’s cultural landscape.
"Ever since we started CUFF 23 years ago, we wanted to have local artists work on the festival poster each year. I love that over all these years, we've maintained our artistic vision from day one. Twenty-two of the posters have been created by different artists who were students, alumni or faculty at AUArts.”
Brenda Lieberman, Festival Director/Co-Founder
Year after year, CUFF’s distinctive posters have been brought to life by AUArts alumni, students, and faculty, showcasing the depth and diversity of Calgary’s creative community. From early contributors like Silas Kaufman (2004) and Tim Huesken (2005), to celebrated illustrators and designers such as Fiona Staples (2013) and Riley Rossmo (2023), the festival’s visual legacy is deeply intertwined with AUArts talent. Artists including Eric Dyck, Josh Holinaty, Matt Luckhurst, Ty Semaka and Chad VanGaalen have all contributed their unique perspectives over the years, alongside a new generation of creatives like Nicole Brunel, Kelly Archibald, Caleb LaPierre, Trey Madsen and Matthew Springer.
The tradition continues in 2026 with Associate Professor Nick Johnson, whose work carries forward a legacy of bold, original design.
"We’ve received incredible feedback over the years — filmmakers and guests from around the world collect the t-shirts, and many have gone on to commission work directly from the artists," Lieberman adds. "The poster initiative has helped build our brand while highlighting the importance of working with local artists — and sharing their unique styles with audiences around the world.”
Together, these artists demonstrate the lasting impact of AUArts alumni on Calgary’s creative identity — bringing fresh perspectives, elevating local culture and helping festivals like CUFF stand out on an international stage. Discover this year’s lineup of films at CUFF, April 16–26, 2026.
