We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Aoran Ma a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Aoran, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. We’d love to hear about a project that you’ve worked on that’s meant a lot to you.

The most meaningful project I’ve worked on is the McDonald’s Holy Bible design project, where I transformed McDonald’s into a symbolic belief system, using AI-generated imagery to critique consumerism. The idea was to present McDonald’s not just as a restaurant but as a cultural institution, representing how commercial enterprises can shape our values and beliefs in subtle ways. The project was satirical and thought-provoking, pushing boundaries with AI and technology to question how consumer culture becomes a form of modern-day worship.

This project was incredibly meaningful to me because it blended conceptual design, technology, and social commentary in a way that was playful yet deeply reflective. I enjoyed the process of using AI to create unconventional visuals and exploring how art can provoke conversations about societal norms. The fact that it encouraged people to think critically about something as familiar as fast food made it a powerful commentary on modern life and consumerism. It allowed me to channel both my creative and analytical sides, and it cemented my belief in design as a tool for not just aesthetic, but philosophical impact.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

My journey into graphic design began with a desire to forge my own path, despite growing up in a family where my father, an architect in China, expected me to follow in his footsteps. I found my true passion for design while studying at the Maryland Institute College of Art (MICA), where I earned my BFA in 2021. This led me to the West Coast to pursue an MFA at the ArtCenter College of Design, where I refined my craft and began experimenting with new technologies like AI and generative code.

During my time at ArtCenter, I embraced the intersection of imagination, fantasy, and futurism in my designs, pushing conventional boundaries to create innovative and visually striking work. What truly sets my work apart is the influence of my diverse identities—being an immigrant, queer, and deeply passionate about American counter-cultures. These facets shape my creative voice, allowing me to tell stories that are both deeply personal and universally resonant.

I’m proud of the unique perspective I bring to design. For me, it’s not just a profession but a means of storytelling and self-expression. Every project I take on is a reflection of my journey, and I’m constantly driven to create work that not only looks beautiful but also has meaning and impact. I want my clients and collaborators to know that I approach each project with a blend of artistry, innovation, and authenticity—always staying true to who I am and the experiences that have shaped me.

What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?

Absolutely. My creative journey is deeply rooted in a personal mission to explore and express themes of identity, culture, and the evolving role of technology through design. At the heart of everything I create is a desire to tell stories that not only reflect my own experiences as an immigrant, a queer individual, and a creative thinker but also resonate with people from diverse backgrounds. I see design as a powerful tool for connecting individuals, challenging societal norms, and creating space for underrepresented voices.

One of my primary goals is to push the boundaries of traditional design by embracing new technologies like AI, generative code, and motion graphics. I believe the future of design lies in innovation and experimentation, and I am passionate about blending fantasy, futurism, and imagination into my work. I want my designs to feel not just visually striking but also thought-provoking, creating experiences that compel viewers to engage with deeper social, cultural, and emotional layers.

Another important element of my mission is to highlight the importance of diversity and inclusion in design. My own experiences as someone who navigates multiple identities have shown me how critical it is to have a voice in shaping the visual landscape of the world. I strive to create work that celebrates the complexities of different cultures and perspectives, breaking away from the standard molds that often dominate the industry. By doing so, I hope to inspire others to embrace their own uniqueness and tell their own stories unapologetically.

Ultimately, my mission is to merge creativity with purpose. Whether it’s through branding, conceptual design, or experimental work, I want my projects to make an impact. I want to empower individuals, challenge conventional thinking, and create work that is not only aesthetically captivating but also rich in meaning. For me, the ultimate success is when my designs spark reflection, evoke emotion, and encourage people to think critically about the world around them. Through my creative journey, I aim to continuously push myself—and the field of graphic design—toward more meaningful, inclusive, and innovative expressions.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

For me, the most rewarding aspect of being an artist and creative is the ability to connect with people on a deeper, more emotional level through my work. Design, at its best, is a form of communication that transcends language and culture, allowing me to share ideas, stories, and perspectives in a way that resonates with diverse audiences. It’s incredibly fulfilling to see how something I’ve created can evoke emotions, spark conversation, or inspire someone to think differently.

Another aspect I find rewarding is the constant evolution of my creative journey. As an artist, I’m always learning, experimenting, and pushing boundaries—whether that’s exploring new technologies like AI, or challenging myself to incorporate my personal experiences into my work. This endless opportunity for growth and self-discovery keeps me motivated and excited about what’s next. Every project is a new chance to innovate, refine my skills, and create something that truly speaks to people.

Lastly, I find immense satisfaction in the power of art and design to provoke thought and challenge societal norms. Being able to use my creative voice to question conventions, highlight underrepresented perspectives, or address social and cultural issues gives my work a greater sense of purpose. Knowing that my designs can contribute to larger conversations or help drive change makes all the challenges of being a creative worthwhile.

Contact Info:

• Website: [email protected]
• Instagram: @aoranma
• Linkedin: https://linkedin.com/in/aoran-ma-944b411a3