Designer of the World
For Freedom Typography project, by Safiyeh Niknami (MFA 2025).
Safiyeh Niknami is an artist and designer born and nurtured in the rich cultural heritage of Iran. She graduates with an MFA in graphic design at LSU in 2025, and also plans to embark on a journey as a Doctor of Design candidate.
Her journey into graphic design began “in the warmth of my childhood home, where I was drawn to art, from it was doodling in my books to creating collages with old newspapers. I cherish memories of sitting beside my mother as she sewed, using leftover pieces of fabric to create colorful patterns and pictures.”
“Design is never just a hobby for me, it is a style of life.”
Choosing graphic design was more than a career decision; it was a natural path that allowed her to combine creativity with purpose. “I chose graphic design because it allows me to speak visually on a global scale, breaking language barriers and telling stories that resonate with people everywhere,” she said.
Her international worldview profoundly influences her art, Safiyeh said. “The experiences I’ve had and the cultures I’ve been exposed to shape the themes and subjects I explore in my art and design practice,” she said. “Growing up in a cultural environment and moving to a foreign country has led me to incorporate various cultural elements into my work, celebrating the beauty of multiculturalism.”
“My personal beliefs and values inform my artistic choices,” she said. “Whether addressing human issues, exploring identity, or reflecting on nature, my art often reflects my hopes, concerns, and aspirations for the world. I find that my perspective on humanity, life, and the environment drives the emotions I want to convey, pushing me to create pieces that resonate on a deeper level.”
“My worldview influences the mediums and techniques I choose in my work. For instance, if I feel a connection to a product, I may incorporate cultural and historical elements and blend them with modern design to create a deeper meaning in my design. Ultimately, my design serves as a visual representation of how I perceive the world, inviting viewers to engage with my perspective and perhaps reconsider their own.”
After graduating from Alzahra University in Tehran, she worked as a freelance designer, collaborating with various companies both in Iran and internationally. Over the years, she wanted to continue her personal and professional growth. She decided to pursue an MFA degree, aiming to deepen her understanding and enhance her skills in a more structured academic environment.
A Welcoming Art & Design Community
“I chose LSU because it felt like the right place for me to grow,” Safiyeh said. “Among several options, LSU stood out with its supportive community and a teaching style that really clicked with my learning preferences. The environment at LSU is nurturing and dynamic, perfect for achieving my educational aspirations. Plus, as an Iranian female artist, I felt particularly welcomed and valued here. Over the past three years, LSU has provided some of the most enriching and memorable moments of my academic journey.”
“Some of my best moments at LSU revolve around the inspiring guidance I received from esteemed graphic design faculty like Professor Courtney Barr and Assistant Professor Luisa Restrepo,” she shared. “Their support was crucial in helping me reach new heights in both my academic and professional life. Participating in prestigious competitions like the American Advertising Federation Awards and coming away with several awards stands out as particularly rewarding. These achievements underscore the nurturing and encouraging atmosphere at the LSU School of Art, which has been pivotal in my growth and development.”
While completing her MFA degree, Safa worked in the Graphic Design Student Office (GDSO), a professional graphic design office at the LSU College of Art & Design.
As a GDSO designer, she provided professional design services for local community organizations and university departments, engaging in a wide array of projects that showcased commitment to impactful design. She had the opportunity to work on diverse projects, including creating brochures, catalogs, annual reports, art exhibition cards, posters, and logos.
“Each project offered unique challenges and the chance to immerse myself in the creative process,” she said. “Working at GDSO was not only about gaining invaluable real-world experience; it was also about honing my skills in graphic design, expanding my network, and building a comprehensive portfolio that reflects my abilities and style.”
Thesis Time: Design Meets Technology
Her MFA thesis exhibition SAFIYEH NIKNAMI: From Roses to Pixels: Design for Kashan’s Golab Festival showcased the Golabgiri Festival in Kashan, Iran, an annual rose water festival, through the lens of graphic design and digital experiences. This project was a valuable opportunity to push her design and research skills while engaging visitors in a cultural dialogue, Safiyeh said.
“I developed a destination branding strategy that reflects the deep cultural richness of Kashan, bringing its traditions to life in a modern context. At the heart of my exhibition was a prototype of the Golab App, a travel guide powered by AI to help visitors and tourists navigate Kashan and fully immerse themselves in its cultural events, particularly the Golab Festival. This exhibition allowed me to share a piece of Iranian art and heritage with an American audience, presenting it through innovative design solutions that bridge tradition and technology.”
In the future, she hopes to continue to blend her love for graphic design with my passion for cultural preservation. “I aim to be recognized as an international artist who uses graphic design as a powerful tool to bridge cultures and communicate meaningful messages across global platforms. Specifically, I wish to deepen my exploration of Iranian art and culture, bringing its rich heritage to a broader audience through my professional work and ongoing research.”
As a Doctor of Design candidate, she will continue my research focusing on cultural preservation, exploring how design and visual arts can significantly impact the conservation and enhancement of cultures that are fading into obscurity. “I look forward to further developing my skills and knowledge as a Doctor of Design candidate, focusing on innovative solutions that make heritage art forms relevant and preserved in the modern world.”
“My research will specifically address the culture and arts of Iran, investigating how these elements can be effectively showcased on a global scale through innovative design practices. This study aims to demonstrate how strategic design interventions can promote and maintain cultural heritage, making it accessible and relevant to a worldwide audience. The goal is to help heritage artworks stay alive and preserved in the modern world. To achieve this, I am analyzing historical Persian motifs and their unique features, creating a bridge between tradition and modernity in forms, mediums, and design strategies.”
Advice for Future Students
“For students interested in graphic design or considering graduate school, it’s crucial to immerse yourself deeply in both practical and theoretical aspects of the field,” she advises. “Always be curious and willing to explore new technologies and design methodologies. For international students, it’s particularly important to engage actively with the broader community, not just within your field but also in diverse cultural settings. This engagement can provide unique perspectives and opportunities, enhancing your creative output and helping you build a supportive network.”
“It’s vital to approach your studies and projects with curiosity and an open mind,” she said. “The field of graphic design is constantly evolving, so staying innovative and proactive in learning new skills is key. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different styles and mediums. Remember, every project is a chance to refine your skills and define your voice as a designer.”
“The challenges you face will build your resilience and expand your creative horizons, preparing you for a successful career in any part of the world.”
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