Teaching — MattScottBarnes 2026

Portfolio Teaching Research & Writing Typography

My approach to teaching graphic design is based on historical research, contemporary practice, critical writing, and open conversation about design theory. I believe it's important to give students a strong foundation in historical research to help them appreciate the evolution of design over time. For example, we can explore how design has been used in different cultural contexts and how it has evolved in response to changing technology.

In addition to this historical perspective, I also believe it's vital to introduce new and innovative ideas about what graphic design can be. Encouraging students to think creatively and outside of the box can help them develop work that is unique and groundbreaking. This may involve exploring new technologies or experimenting with different mediums.

Furthermore, I think it's important for students to develop strong conceptual thinking skills. Rather than simply following current trends or creating work that is ironic in nature, students should think deeply about the ideas behind their work. By building work with strong conceptual thinking, students can create designs that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also have a deeper meaning and purpose.

Finally, I believe open conversation about design theory is key to helping students develop their skills. By discussing different approaches to design and exploring the work of other designers, students can gain a better understanding of the field and develop their own unique voice.

Teaching Experience:

Fall 2026
University of Cincinnati / Ullman School of Design
CODE 4021 Design Research and Methods
CODE 2022 Typography 3.2
CODE 1020 Typography 1.1 and 1.2

Summer 2026
CODE 4100 Capstone 1.2 and 1.3
CODE 2100 Graphic Design 1.1 and 1.3

Fall 2025
University of Cincinnati / Ullman School of Design
CODE 4021 Design Research and Methods
CODE 2022 Typography 3.2
CODE 1020 Typography 1.1 and 1.2

Summer 2025
University of Cincinnati / Ullman School of Design
CODE 4100 Capstone 1.2

Spring 2022
The New School / Parsons School of Design
PUCD 4205 Core 4 — Thesis 2 / Class Site

Fall 2021
PUCD 4205 Core 4 — Thesis 1 / Class Site

Fall 2017
Western Kentucky University / Department of Art & Design
Art 432 — Portfolio / Syllabus
Art 431 — Illustration / Syllabus

Fall 2013
Art Academy of Cincinnati
VCD1 — Typography / Syllabus
VCD3 — Integration / Syllabus

Semester (School)
Class Section

Project/Assignment
Action

Summer 26 (University of Cincinnati)
CODE4100 Capstone 1

Research and Planning
Coming Soon

Summer 26 (University of Cincinnati)
CODE4100 Capstone 1

Process Journal
Coming Soon

Summer 26 (University of Cincinnati)
CODE 2100 Graphic Design 1

Visual Identity
Coming Soon

Fall 2025 (University of Cincinnati)
CODE 4021 Design Research Methods

Project Two
View Work

Fall 2025 (University of Cincinnati)
CODE 2022 Typography 3.2

Fan Zine
View Work