Hello, I'm Emeli! I'm a designer who uses curiosity, playfulness, and storytelling to create meaningful work that fosters connection, helps people feel seen, and brings beauty into the world.
For me, design is a process of collecting and transforming pieces of life into something meaningful. I think of design as a collage made from stories, memories, and experiences, with layers that shape how I create and understand the world. Through curiosity, imagination, and playfulness, I gather inspiration from history, culture, and everyday moments to translate it into visual forms that communicate meaning and invite connection.
At the heart of my practice is storytelling. Through design, I aim to create work that helps others feel seen by sharing experiences and perspectives in a visual way. I value the balance between function and expression, where thoughtful communication exists alongside beauty and experimentation. Through my work, I hope to foster connection and contribute moments of beauty to the world.
Looking back, what advice would you give yourself?
Looking back, I would tell myself to trust the process, be confident in who I am, and not be afraid of failure.
What's your favorite A+D memory?
My favorite memory is getting to travel to Italy with my A+D friends and professors. It was special to experience in person the things I had been learning about, and I loved spending that time together and growing closer through the experience.
What was your favorite A+D class?
My favorite class was Resurrections of Typography!
What moment, project, and/or critique in your Art + Design career at AU has been pivotal to who you are as an artist or creator?
A pivotal moment for me was my first Type class sophomore year. It was the first time I felt a clear sense that I was where I was meant to be, and it helped me discover a part of design I love and better understand who I am as a designer.
What's next for you?
While I am still exploring what comes next, I am excited to follow my curiosity and continue creating meaningful work. I hope to find a space that allows me to grow, learn, and thrive while discovering where my purpose leads me.
How do you hope your work makes an impact?
I hope my work makes an impact on others’ lives, whether big or small. Through design, I want to share stories, help others feel seen, and bring moments of joy and beauty into everyday life.