RESEARCH
Conferences &
Presentations
Brief:
Research Area:
Human-Centered Design | Social Impact Design | Data driven design | Cross-cultural Design | Artificial Intelligence
Exploring Design Through Research and Innovation
My research focuses on the intersections of design, culture, and technology, examining how visual communication, interdisciplinary approaches, and emerging tools can shape societal understanding and foster inclusivity. Currently focused on AI data driven tools in cross-cultural design—examining their adaptability to non-Western visual languages and their role in fostering critical thinking and problem-solving.
This research examines the capabilities and limitations of AI-powered attention prediction tools in cross-cultural graphic design. Using a mixed-methods approach, the study analyzed poster designs created by ten Persian graphic designers living both inside and outside Iran. AI-generated attention maps were compared across designs featuring culturally specific typography, visual motifs, and symbolic color systems, while interviews and surveys provided additional insight into designers’ perspectives. The findings suggest that although AI attention tools can effectively identify major focal points and support visual hierarchy evaluation, they often struggle to interpret culturally specific design elements and non-Western visual conventions, often favoring familiar Western patterns while overlooking meaningful cultural references embedded within the designs.
The project extends beyond traditional research through an interactive exhibition that invites visitors to become active participants in the study. Through video installations, visual analyses, and augmented reality experiences, audiences are introduced to the critical questions surrounding AI, perception, and cultural bias. Visitors can compare their own visual attention with AI-generated predictions, while surveys and responses collected throughout the exhibition contribute additional perspectives to the research. Rather than presenting fixed conclusions, the exhibition functions as an evolving platform where human observation, algorithmic interpretation, and public engagement continuously inform one another, allowing the project to grow through each new audience and exhibition context.
By highlighting both the strengths and limitations of predictive attention technologies, this project raises critical questions about bias, cultural representation, and the future of AI-assisted design evaluation in an increasingly global visual landscape.
Brief:
2024
Eye-tracking Testing Visual Hierarchy in Poster, Book Cover and Magazine Layout Design
Research Assistant – Xinran Hu, Georgia State University
Aug 2022- Fall 2024, Currently under review for publication
This study employed eye-tracking technology to explore how visual hierarchy enhances clarity in design layouts, such as posters, book covers, and magazines. As a research assistant, I contributed to the fundamental aspects of the project, including literature review, experimental design, resource collection, and facilitation. Findings revealed the importance of initial fixation areas and dwell time in optimizing communication efficiency, providing critical insights for effective visual communication in graphic design.
Brief:
The Cultural Lens: Adapting AI for Global Design Practices
GSU 3rd Annual Graduate Conference for Research, Scholarship, and Creative Activity
Feb 5, 2025 — Atlanta, GA
Exploring the limitations of AI-driven attention mapping tools in cross-cultural design, with a focus on Middle Eastern visual elements, this study advocates for AI models that empower designers to create more inclusive and globally resonant work. By integrating diverse visual languages into AI-driven design processes, it fosters innovation and inclusivity in design technology.
Brief:
2023
ADS vs ADS: Graphic Design as a Catalyst for Social Critique
AIGA Design Educators Community (DEC) Symposium: Lens
Oct 12, 2023 – Parsons School of Design, NYC
https://educators.aiga.org/lens-2023-aiga-dec-symposium/
This research examines the interdisciplinary potential of graphic design to address social and political issues through critical visual narratives. By analyzing how design can simultaneously engage with and challenge advertising conventions, the study explores the role of graphic design as a powerful medium for societal critique. It highlights the importance of integrating reflective inquiry into design education to empower designers with both technical expertise and critical awareness, fostering their ability to influence public discourse and inspire meaningful change.
Brief:
Positive Change Through Graphic Naratives
SECAC 80th Conference
Oct 24, 2024 – Atlanta, GA
https://cdn.ymaws.com/secacart.org/resource/resmgr/images/conference_2024/program__final.pdf
This session explored the interdisciplinary role of graphic design in addressing social issues through visual narratives. As session chair, I facilitated presentations and discussions with six assistant professors from universities across the U.S., focusing on graphic design’s potential as a wayfinding tool for societal challenges. The roundtable emphasized cross-disciplinary insights, examining how design elements can foster social critique, cultural understanding, and positive change in complex societal contexts.
Brief:
2022
Graphic Design+Architecture in 20th Century
Research Project – Graduate Seminar: Design and Philosophy
2022 – Georgia State University
This research examines the intersection of graphic design and architecture across the 20th and 21st centuries, focusing on how societal needs and philosophical movements influenced both disciplines. By analyzing theories, movements, and notable works, the study highlights parallels in their responses to cultural, functional, and aesthetic challenges.
Visualized and shared collaboratively on Miro, the research provides insights into how design and architecture evolve as complementary disciplines shaping human environments.
Brief:
Concep-Text-Ual Art: Intersection of Language and Visuals in Contemporary Art
Research Paper – Contemporary Art Theory and Criticism,
Summer 2023- Georgia State University
Exploring the role of language in contemporary art, focusing on how text and imagery shape meaning and challenge societal constructs. The study highlights the ways graphic design and text-based art critique cultural narratives, feminism, and power structures. It underscores the importance of integrating historical and theoretical insights into modern creative practices, encouraging deeper reflections on art’s potential as a medium for social and political engagement.
Brief:
CLOTHES AS A VISUAL LANGUAGE
Research Paper – African Female Artists and Art Forms
2022 – Georgia State University
This research examines the visual and cultural significance of clothing as a form of communication, comparing the lives, materials, colors, symbols, and techniques of African Bamana women and Iranian Turkman women. By exploring how these elements are deeply rooted in their daily lives and traditions, the study highlights how clothing serves not only as a design medium but also as a language conveying personal and cultural identity.
Brief:
Current Research
A-EYE MAP: A Comparative Analysis of AI-Predicted Attention Maps in
Cross-Cultural Design
2024- 2025, MFA Thesis
Understanding Attention Maps and Their Importance
Attention maps are visual overlays generated by AI or eye-tracking technologies that highlight areas of high and low viewer attention within a design. Using color-coded representations (red for high focus, blue for low focus), they provide insights into how users visually interact with content. These maps are crucial for enhancing visual hierarchy—a design principle that guides viewers’ focus on key elements such as headlines, images, or calls to action. By predicting attention patterns, designers can refine layouts, improve usability, and ensure communication materials effectively capture their audience’s focus.
Research Summary
This study investigates how AI-driven attention mapping tools—Attention Insight and Expoze—can enhance design practices and education. By leveraging deep learning, neuroscience, and psycology these tools generate attention maps that highlight areas of high and low focus in visual content, guiding designers in optimizing their work for maximum engagement. However, their reliance on Western-centric datasets raises important questions about their effectiveness in non-Western cultural contexts.
Brief:
2025
Unleashing Creativity and Precision: AI Tools in Graphic Design Education
CAA 113th Annual Conference
Feb 13, 2025 — New York, NY
https://caa.confex.com/caa/2025/meetingapp.cgi/Session/15182
Exploring how AI tools are reshaping design education by blending creativity with predictive analytics and fostering critical cultural awareness. This study examines how AI-driven heatmaps and usability testing can enhance student creativity, precision, and understanding of audience engagement. By addressing cultural representation gaps and guiding responsible AI use, this study highlights the transformative potential of AI in equipping students to navigate an evolving design landscape.
Brief:
