Tyler Barnes

Tyler Barnes is an Associate Professor of Art in Graphic Design at the University of Mississippi, affiliated with the Department of Art & Art History within the College of Liberal Arts. He holds an MFA in Graphic Design from Texas A&M University–Corpus Christi and a BFA in Graphic Communications from Northwestern State University. His professional practice, T.Barnes Graphics, has been active since 2009, and he collaborates with Artfly Design as a brand specialist.

Educational Background:

• MFA in Studio Art, Texas A&M University (2016)
• BFA in Graphic Communications, Northwestern State University (2008)

Tyler Barnes specializes in brand strategy, visual identity systems, typography, and packaging design. His research focuses on brand development and its influence on community and commerce. His curriculum is shaped by his extensive experience in conceptual thinking, visual actualization, and brand strategy. He teaches a comprehensive range of courses including Graphic Design I–III, Typography, Package Design, Web Design, and senior-level thesis courses.

Tyler’s professional work has been widely recognized through awards and publications. He has earned 20 American Advertising Federation Awards, including 5 ADDY® District Awards. His designs have been featured in prominent design publications and juried exhibitions such as the OSO BAY Biennial and The Art of the Poster National Juried Exhibition.

Professional Recognition:

• 20 American Advertising Federation Awards
• 5 ADDY® District Awards
• Published in UnderConsideration’s: For Print Only
• Published in Creative Quarterly
• Published in Graphic Design USA
• Featured in the Logo Lounge Book Series

Tyler Barnes actively integrates professional practice with academic instruction, mentoring students through design pedagogy and real-world applications. While no formal grant activity or student advisement list is documented, his influence extends through his teaching, creative output, and industry engagement. He is also involved in professional exhibitions and maintains a strong presence in the design community.

Design Clients and Projects:

• River Basin Distillery
• The Wasted Hearts
• Norton Law Firm
• Ward Hardware
• Cane River Rum
• MARK Skateboards
• Coastal Sol Foodtruck
• Rebel Toad Brewing Company