Type Speaks

In this episode, we speak with Devon Ward on various topics including codeswitching between disciplines, what Biodesign is and how it can be used, Globalization and design communication, using AI as a tool, and our controversial takes surrounding primates.

Devon Ward is a designer, artist, and educator who works across multiple creative disciplines including print design, interactive media, biodesign, and experimental art. He is an Assistant Professor of Graphic Design at Auburn University where he teaches introduction to graphic design, advanced interactive media and biodesign. His research focuses on design as an expanding field that blends new materials, technologies, and theories to adapt to changing environments.

In this episode, we speak with Robert Finkel on various topics including the challenges and rewards of teaching, design ethics, why we like things and how to define good design, and design trends we secretly love.

Robert Finkel is a designer and educator at Auburn University. As an Associate Professor of Graphic Design he teaches courses in Typography, Graphic Design History, and Visual Identity. He is the co-author of the book The IBM Poster Program: Visual Memoranda published by Lund Humphries.

In this episode, hosts Rae and Emiko introduce the podcast and speak on the ideas behind the creation of the podcast and future directions.

Rae is a junior in the Graphic Design program at Auburn University, where they’re excited to dive into new design styles and explore emerging subgenres. As the station manager for WEGL 91.1 FM, Auburn’s student-run radio station, they merge their passion for design with a fascination for how ideas are shared, and how stories are told. Over the summer, they also work as a teaching assistant, helping nourish a growing creativity in young artists. With a keen interest in both visual and auditory storytelling, Rae embraces the ways design can shape perceptions and ignite conversations. 

Emiko is a senior majoring in Graphic Design at Auburn University in Auburn, AL. She enjoys representing her major as a College of Architecture Design and Construction Ambassador and as Lead Student Graphic Designer for Auburn Student Involvement. Outside of design she is part of many extracurriculars including the club For the Bees, and being captain of an Intramural Co-Rec Flag football team. She enjoys using creative processes and working with people in many different curriculums and fields and seeing design from outside perspectives.