Hintzpiration: Artistry at the Alumni Center returns to the Hintz Family Alumni Center during the 60th anniversary of the Central Pennsylvania Festival of the Arts on July 10–11, 2026. The free public exhibit will be open both days from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

This year’s exhibit, “Simplism: Finding Creativity in Chaos,” features the vibrant work of designer, illustrator, and Penn State alumnus Brian Kappel ’98 A&A. Kappel, founder of Space Monkey Designs, has collaborated with brands including Nike, Jordan Brand, Under Armour, adidas, and ESPN, and is also the artist behind the mural at the Starbucks inside Pattee Library on Penn State’s University Park campus. His bold, playful work transforms everyday chaos into creative expression across a variety of mediums. His connection to Penn State and the Central Pennsylvania Festival of the Arts spans generations—his parents were Arts Festival vendors in the 1960s, and he grew up attending the festival.

On Friday, July 10, Kappel will offer a live art demonstration from 2–3:30 p.m. at the Hintz Family Alumni Center, giving visitors a behind-the-scenes look at his creative process.

Hintzpiration will also feature works from current Penn State student artists, along with a gallery of vintage Central Pennsylvania Festival of the Arts posters created by legendary graphic designer Lanny Sommese, Penn State distinguished professor emeritus, and his daughter, Saige Sommese.

While exploring the Arts Fest downtown, visitors can also stop by the Centre County Chapter of the Penn State Alumni Association Hospitality Tent in front of the Municipal Building on South Allen Street, featuring art storage, a complimentary water station, and festival merchandise.

An exclusive reception for Penn State Alumni Association members will be held from 7–9:30 p.m. on Friday, July 10, at the Hintz Family Alumni Center, featuring food, live music from Pure Cane Sugar, and complimentary beverages from the Central PA Tasting Trail. Guests will also have the opportunity to view and bid on a collaborative artwork by three generations of Penn State alumni—Brian Kappel ’98, his daughter Emma Kappel ’23, and his father Bill Kappel ’70—in support of the College of Arts and Architecture Alumni Society Scholarship Fund. Admission is $25 for Alumni Association members. Non-members may purchase an annual membership during registration at a special Hintzpiration rate of $25 (a 50% discount).

Registration is now open for current Penn State Alumni Association members, with invitations sent directly via email. Non-members interested in attending and becoming a member at the discounted rate can access registration information on the Hintzpiration page beginning June 18 while space remains available.