Meet the Inaugural Design Innovation Creatives‑in‑Residence

The Design Innovation Initiative at �Ը�� University is excited to announce the selected participants for the inaugural cohort of the DI Creatives‑in‑Residence (CIR) Program, a semester-long residency that supports visionary creatives in the �Ը�� community and beyond working at the intersection of art, design and technology.

This year’s cohort includes a pair innovative thinkers — including a �Ը�� graduate student and member of the Northeast Ohio creative community. They were selected for their bold ideas, interdisciplinary approaches, and commitment to pushing boundaries through experimentation and collaboration.

The DI Creatives-in-Residence Program is made possible by a generous gift from long-time supporter of Design Innovation, Ken Robinson, and an investment of public funds from the . The OAC is a state agency that funds and supports quality arts experiences to strengthen Ohio communities culturally, educationally, and economically.

Fall 2025 Creatives‑in‑Residence

The following individuals have been selected as the Fall 2025 DI Creatives-in-Residence:

Charisse Harris

KSU Alumnae & Community Member

Charisse Harris is an interdisciplinary visual artist & art instructor from Akron, Ohio. She received her Master of Fine Arts from �Ը�� University, and her Bachelor of Arts from Baldwin-Wallace University. Graduating with honors from both, she is a dedicated student of life who is always learning and questioning. In her creative research, Charisse is investigating the female gaze, food culture, and artistic collaboration with generative AI. She is hopeful to continue exploring these ideas as she enters a PhD program in 2026. Charisse has taught a range of studio art courses at �Ը�� University, �Ը��-Stark, Columbus State, & Capital University in Columbus, Ohio. She was a Visiting Assistant Professor of Drawing at Oberlin College in 2023 and is currently a lecturer at Baldwin-Wallace University.

Sanmitha Nantur Ganesh

Graduate Student, Data Science

Sanmitha Nantur Ganesh is a master's student studying Data Science at �Ը�� University. Her academic and professional journey has focused on data visualization, machine learning, and the creative use of technology to make information more engaging and accessible. She has prior experience working on AI-powered tools, automation, and interactive dashboards, which strengthened her interest in blending analytical methods with design. As a DI Creative-in-Residence, she is excited to create interactive well-being data visualizations that merge art and data to inspire reflection and foster meaningful community engagement.

A Platform for Exploration, Collaboration & Impact

The CIR Program is designed to catalyze creative inquiry and hands-on experimentation, encouraging residents to explore new technologies, foster interdisciplinary collaboration, and connect with the wider public through interactive programming and exhibitions.

Throughout the semester, residents will:

Develop and prototype original work in the DI Hub’s REACTOR maker environment
Host a public-facing event such as a workshop, demonstration, or artist talk
Participate in an end-of-semester exhibition in the DI Gallery
Present their work at DI Day, �Ը��’s annual celebration of creativity and innovation
Reflect on their process in a documented creative portfolio

The community is invited to follow the residents’ journey throughout the semester and attend upcoming events and exhibitions that showcase their work.

learn more about the CIR Program

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