Mitch Goldstein

Mitch Goldstein is an Associate Professor in the School of Design at Rochester Institute of Technology's College of Art and Design. With over twenty years of teaching experience, he has previously taught at Rhode Island School of Design, Virginia Commonwealth University, and Maryland Institute College of Art.

• BFA from Rhode Island School of Design (2006)
• MFA in Design and Visual Communications from Virginia Commonwealth University (2012)
• MFA in Furniture Design from Rochester Institute of Technology (2023)

Goldstein's research interests center on graphic design, motion design, and design pedagogy. His creative practice spans graphic design, wet darkroom photography, sculpture, and furniture design. He approaches his work at the intersections of anxiety and calm, chaos and clarity, often creating sculptures that synthesize disparate materials. His educational philosophy emphasizes practical approaches to design education, focusing on student development and creative practice.

His publication output shows consistent engagement with design education theory and practice, with his 2023 book "How To Be A Design Student (And How To Teach Them)" representing a significant contribution to the field. His work spans both theoretical explorations of design education and practical applications in studio settings, with recent projects including the "Fragment" series of visual art pieces and the collaborative "RABBET" exhibition focusing on joinery methodologies.

• Author of "How To Be A Design Student (And How To Teach Them)" (2023)
• Featured in FastCompany's "Design Education is Ready For a Revolution"
• Regular contributor to design education podcasts and video content
• Active participant in Rochester's art community including the Rochester Fringe Festival

As an educator, Goldstein teaches across the design curriculum including 2D and 3D design foundations, motion design, graphic design studios, and capstone projects. His advising work includes supervising internships and independent studies, guiding students through professional development and creative exploration. He maintains an active creative practice that informs his teaching approach, regularly exhibiting and selling original artwork.

Goldstein collaborates with fellow RIT faculty member Rebecca Aloisio on artistic projects exploring methodologies of joinery through collage, appropriation, and assemblage. Their work creates visual tension through the combination of flat and spatial elements, colors, and patterns that exist in a space between reality and invention.