Bonnie Blake

Bonnie Blake is a Professor of Graphic Design & Interactive Media in the School of Contemporary Arts at Ramapo College of New Jersey, where she has taught since 2002. Her work integrates design practice with pedagogy, focusing on motion graphics, interactive media, and socially engaged documentary filmmaking.

Her educational background includes:

• MFA from the School of the Arts at Columbia University
• BFA from the School of the Arts at Ohio University

Professor Blake's research explores innovative design education methodologies, emphasizing experiential learning through motion design and sensory engagement. She investigates how visual communication can address social issues like homelessness and consumer culture, while advocating for 'citizen designers' who leverage their skills for social impact. Her scholarship challenges conventional design principles to foster student innovation beyond established norms.

Analysis of her publications reveals consistent themes in design pedagogy, with significant contributions to motion graphics education, critical approaches to graphic design history, and writing integration in design curricula. Her work demonstrates an evolving trajectory from technical skill development toward ethical design practice and social responsibility.

Her notable recognitions include:

• Graphic Design USA Silver Award for VIP Passport brand identity (2013)
• ADCNJ Bronze Award for Postcards From Tora Bora film poster design (2011)
• Fred and Florence Thomases Award for college contributions (2010)
• Ramapo College Faculty Student Research Award (2012)

Professor Blake has secured multiple internal grants including Faculty Development Fund awards (2008, 2010, 2012) and a Career Development grant (2014), supporting projects like 'Displaced in Appalachia' and 'Walk the Borderlands'. She actively mentors students through senior capstone projects and serves as a national reviewer for design education conferences and student portfolio evaluations.

Her creative practice involves collaborative multimedia productions that bridge classroom learning with community engagement, particularly through documentary filmmaking projects addressing social issues.