Michael Hersrud

Michael Hersrud is an Associate Professor of Graphic Design at VCUarts Qatar, part of Virginia Commonwealth University. He specializes in audiovisual, experimental sound, and interdisciplinary design practices. He co-founded Sonic Jeel, a research lab exploring sound and electronic music in the Gulf region, and has taught at the university level for 18 years. His work bridges art, education, and technology, with a focus on collaborative projects and pedagogical innovation.

Education:

• Rhode Island School of Design (MFA, Graphic Design, 2006)
• Brown University (Multimedia & Electronic Music Experiments, 2005)
• University of Oregon (Post Baccalaureate, Letterpress Printmaking & New Media, 2003)
• Minnesota State University (BFA, Studio Art with Graphic Design, 1996)

Research Interests: His work spans modular synthesis, field recording, space activation, and experimental sound design. He explores interdisciplinary collaborations, particularly in Gulf cultural contexts.

Grants & Research:

• Sonic Jeel Lab for AudioVisual Exploration (Research Institute at VCUarts Qatar, 2020–2022)
• "-162°C Trading Power" (Wieden & Kennedy Gallery, Tokyo, 2018–2019)

Labs & Teams: Co-founder of Sonic Jeel, a collaborative lab producing interdisciplinary sound and visual projects. Active in Qatar’s cultural scene through exhibitions and performances at venues like Doha Fire Station and Gwangju Design Biennale.