MFA Thesis: Applied Designer

Media: Creative coding, research

Tools: InDesign, Illustrator, Figma, p5.js, Processing

Goal: Expand the perceived value of designers.

Recognition: Presented initial thesis research at Graph*c Content, a conference hosted by AIGA Los Angeles.

Please reach out by email, I would love to discuss my project with you!

This page will get an overhaul in the coming weeks, until then follow along on Instagram @applieddesigner.

Last Updated: February 03, 2025

The true power of graphic designers is realized when we apply our thinking to more than just visual problems. Our industry’s obsession with “the best” is suffocating our creativity through a linear process. It’s time for a new way to understand creative projects, one which allows for room to meander. Design is a labyrinth, not a maze, a mindful creative exploration through skills, projects, collaborators, and insights.

I recently gave a talk titled “Deconstructing ‘Best’: Redefining Success for Designers” at a conference hosted by AIGA Los Angeles in November 2024.

Shakeel Mohamed speaking at AIGA Los Angeles

Acknowledgements

Special thanks to my thesis advisor Michael Neal, instructors Sheharazad Fleming, Petrula Vrontikis, and Cheri Gray.

Work

Thesis

Experiments

About

hello@shakeel.design

MFA Thesis: Applied Designer