Nikki Juen

Nikki Juen is an Assistant Professor of Graphic Design at Roger Williams University and Chair Emerita of the MFA in Graphic Design program at Vermont College of Fine Arts (VCFA). Her work emphasizes relational design, focusing on equitable and respectful design of human interactions with ideas, environments, and communities. She advocates for decolonized pedagogies, radical representation in academic institutions, and the body as media in educational contexts.

Education:

• MFA in Visual Art, Vermont College of Fine Arts
• BFA in Graphic Design, Rhode Island School of Design (RISD)

Research & Practice: Juen’s research explores intersections of design, social justice, and activism. She co-founded the Public Displays of Affection (PDA) Collective, which employs nonviolent art actions to address systemic issues like misogyny, sexism, and environmental neglect. PDA emphasizes rematriation, interconnectivity, and solidarity across diverse communities.

Awards:

• 2019 John R. Frazier Award for Excellence in Teaching (RISD)
• 2018 Graphic Design USA Magazine “Educator to Watch”

Teaching & Leadership: Previously a lecturer at RISD’s Experimental and Foundation Studies for 13 years, Juen has mentored countless students and led workshops on embodied learning and collective social agency. Her courses integrate theory and practice to foster critical design thinking.

Labs/Teams: Public Displays of Affection (PDA) Collective, a multidisciplinary group advancing art-based activism and community resilience.