Returning to the Third Place
Angela Creason · MFA Thesis · Liberty University · 2026
About This Thesis
The final requirement for completing a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Graphic Design is the thesis. The purpose of the thesis was to identify a real-world problem and demonstrate and defend how graphic design could solve that problem. MFA candidates are guided through the process, including topic selection by their committee, and must complete extensive research and provide deliverables to solve the problem.
Generation Z professionals exhibit post-COVID reluctance to engage traditional third-place community environments, which results in diminished authentic relationship formation, perpetuated social anxiety in physical settings, and reduced opportunities for mental and spiritual development through meaningful interpersonal connections. The objective of this project is to develop a pathway that helps Gen Z engage in real-life activities that cultivate authentic relationships and spiritual growth.
A literature review examined Gen Z's post-COVID behaviors, technology use, social media engagement, and third-place activities. Research confirmed that pseudo-relationships on social media foster unrealistic views of connection, contributing to avoidance of in-person relationships. At the same time, Gen Z's growing affection for coffee culture — and their openness to low-pressure environments — presented a meaningful design opportunity. Three case studies and visual analyses further informed the solution: the Brewseum event (a coffee shop-style experience at Liberty University), the Mind the Gap board game (compact tabletop interaction for multiple generations), and Utmost.org (a classic devotional successfully adapted for digital audiences). Each study shaped the content, format, and aesthetic of Percolate.
Students experiencing coffee at the Brewseum event. Image used with permission by LU One. Created by Dyson Biagas.
To solve this problem the following deliverables were created: a tabletop Bible study stand with swivel cards, a companion website, two posters, and social media ads. These deliverables were designed for young Christian professionals aged 22–28 who are digitally immersed, socially anxious in traditional settings, and open to engaging in low-pressure environments like coffee shops. All deliverables share the Percolate brand identity — dopamine-bright colors, maximalist aesthetic, and approachable typography designed specifically for a Gen Z audience.
Percolate Bible Study
The Percolate stand is 3D-printed in PLA filament with water-resistant sticker card faces and an acrylic lazy Susan base. Eight major versions were designed and tested before arriving at the final form. The spinning base and swivel cards create curiosity and tactile engagement — confirming that physical interaction is cathartic for an audience that spends most of its time on screens.
Tap the + markers to explore each section and the research behind it.
Front & Back · Session 1: Made for Connection
Companion Website
QR codes on each card link participants to the companion website — for reading along with a facilitator or returning for individual reflection. The website mirrors the look and feel of the physical cards, building muscle memory across the 12-week study. Built with AI assistance using Claude and the ESV Bible API.
Posters
Two posters promote Percolate in coffee shop settings — one for a facilitated Bible study night, one for self-directed groups. No pressure. No experience required. No Bible knowledge necessary.
Watch the swivel cards, the spinning base, and Percolate on a coffee shop table.
Liberty University · May 2026
MFA Thesis Exhibition · Liberty University · School of Communication & the Arts · 2026
The complete MFA thesis document — Returning to the Third Place: for Mental and Spiritual Well-being — is available as a PDF. It includes the full research report, methodology, solution documentation, and works cited.
Social Media
Three Instagram ads — one for the Percolate brand, two for local coffee shops to promote their study nights. The "CO" icon solidifies brand recognition across all ads.