OTIS COLLEGE OF ART AND DESIGN
Originally from Philadelphia PA (go Birds!), Emma began her undergraduate studies at Occidental College, double-majoring in Economics and Psychology. In her sophomore year, she transferred to Tyler School of Art in Philadelphia, obtaining a BA in Visual Studies. Following graduation, Emma worked at the nonprofit Women Against Abuse before accepting a role as the Production Designer at Masters Group Design, a creative agency for other nonprofits. During her off-hours, Emma dabbled in the Philadelphia comedy scene, ultimately leading to a passion for performance, stand-up, and improv. Throughout her experiences, she noticed an intersection between comedy and design. She decided to pursue this further in the MFA Graphic Design program at Otis College of Art and Design. At Otis, Emma’s work has primarily focused on the role and frameworks of comedy, the relationship between design and comedy, and the role of education. She currently lives in Los Angeles with her dog, Freddie.
WHAT MAKES YOU FEEL INSPIRED?
I love to laugh! Watching any type of comedy or enjoying quality time with friends or family can be sources of inspiration for me.
IF THERE WERE NO BARRIERS AND CONSTRAINTS, WHAT PROJECT WOULD YOU WANT TO WORK ON?
I have three immediate responses. The first is continuing to explore how and where the frameworks of design and comedy overlap as well as how techniques in comedy, specifically improv, can aid design education. The second is exploring ways in which visuals and design can aid in the earlier identification of students with masked learning disorders. The third is a combination of the first two.
WHAT ARE YOU READING/LISTENING TO/WATCHING?
I just finished reading The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue by V. E. Schwab and The Final Girl Support Group by Grady Hendrix. Recently, I’ve been listening to meditation music, it’s calming! I’m perpetually watching The Office. Aside from that, I’m rewatching Russian Doll — I love Natasha Lyonne and the underlying message.