Today we’d like to introduce you to Ananya Singh
Hi Ananya, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
Your Story
My journey is one woven with curiosity, resilience, and a deep love for creativity. I grew up in a small town in Muzaffarnagar, Uttar Pradesh, surrounded by the vibrant hues of everyday life that subtly influenced my artistic inclinations. My fascination with storytelling and visual communication began early, whether it was through sketching scenes from my imagination or poring over political cartoons in newspapers, marveling at their power to say so much with so little.
My academic path took me from India to the United States, I earned a PhD from India exploring the cultural and political impact of cartoons, an art form I consider both timeless and transformative. Along the way, I pursued an MA in Advertising from USA to deepen my understanding of the creative industries and to equip myself with the tools to bridge the gap between art and commerce.
But the journey wasn’t without its challenges. Moving between countries, cultures, and disciplines taught me adaptability and the value of a global perspective. I worked across roles—as a creative strategist, brand consultant, and educator—shaping campaigns, mentoring students, and contributing to projects that intersect art, technology, and social impact.
Today, as a faculty member and researcher, at University of Texas Arlington. I am passionate about fostering creativity and innovation in my students. My work focuses on the intersection of visual communication, media arts, and cultural narratives. Whether I’m crafting a curriculum, collaborating with clients, or working on research that explores the ethical implications of emerging technologies, my goal remains the same: to inspire and create.
My story is still unfolding, but if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that every step—no matter how small or seemingly unrelated—adds depth to the larger picture. It’s the moments of curiosity, courage, and collaboration that continue to shape me into the person I am today.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The road has been far from smooth, but it’s in those twists and turns that I found growth. Moving from a small town in India to navigating academia and creative industries in the U.S. was a cultural and emotional shift, filled with moments of self-doubt and homesickness. Balancing a demanding academic journey—earning a PhD and later an MA—with professional ambitions and personal life often felt like walking a tightrope.
Breaking into interdisciplinary fields came with its own set of challenges—convincing others of the value of combining art, research, and technology wasn’t always easy. There were times when opportunities felt out of reach, or resources were scarce, forcing me to adapt, innovate, and keep moving forward.
These challenges, however, became my greatest teachers. They taught me resilience, patience, and the importance of celebrating small wins. Every obstacle pushed me to think differently, work harder, and ultimately become a stronger, more empathetic creative professional.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
As a creative strategist, educator, and researcher, my work bridges the worlds of visual communication, media arts, and cultural narratives. I specialize in crafting impactful visual stories that blend design, research, and social responsibility. My passion lies in creating sustainable and culturally sensitive designs that inspire conversations and spark change.
What sets me apart is my interdisciplinary approach—combining my background in art, advertising, and political communication to explore how media shapes identities and public discourse. My research delves into areas like AI-generated art, ethical design practices, and sustainable product development, emphasizing the importance of balancing innovation with responsibility.
I’m most proud of empowering students to think critically and creatively while fostering a deeper understanding of the role design plays in shaping a better, more inclusive world. Whether mentoring students or collaborating with industry partners, I strive to create work that leaves a meaningful, lasting impact.
Can you tell us more about what you were like growing up?
Growing up, I was an endlessly curious and imaginative child, always fascinated by the world around me. I loved sketching, reading, and observing life—finding stories in the smallest of details. My personality was a mix of introversion and ambition; I enjoyed my own creative space but also thrived on excelling in school and engaging with big ideas.
I was drawn to anything that allowed me to express myself—whether through art, poetry, or storytelling. Political cartoons and newspapers fascinated me, sparking an early interest in visual storytelling and communication. I had a natural inclination for problem-solving, always eager to find innovative ways to make ideas come to life.
These traits shaped my path, pushing me to explore the intersection of art, culture, and society. Even as a child, I believed that creativity wasn’t just about beauty—it was about making an impact. That belief continues to guide me today.
Contact Info:
Image Credits
Credit to all my team members for the projects
Rajeev Pillai
Demi Gomez
Jalaj Bhatnagar
Meghna Shourie
Maria Xiao
Jinqin Xiao Maria
Wenyi
Maite
