Ryan Cady
Adjunct Faculty
Freelance Designer
BFA, Graphic & Interaction Design
College for Creative Studies
(2002 - 2005)
MA, Interactive Media Arts
New York University - Tisch School of the Arts
(2023 - 2024)
My interests explore the intersection of design, technology, and cultural production, examining how computational approaches can create more meaningful and accessible human experiences. I’m particularly interested in alternative models of technological development that prioritize community agency over purely commercial imperatives, drawing from my background in DIY culture to investigate how designers can create tools that empower personal creative production. Current research directions include critical but productive approaches to AI in creative contexts, and community-based digital infrastructure as alternatives to centralized platforms.
Professional Experience
Over two decades across design practice, technology, and education. After earning my BFA from College for Creative Studies, I worked at Ham in the Fridge, Vectorform , General Motors, and Digitas before joining AllMusic as Senior Designer for over twelve years, where I directed comprehensive UX/UI strategy for one of the web’s largest music databases serving millions of users globally. I completed an MA in Interactive Media Arts at NYU Tisch, studying across New York, Berlin, and Shanghai. Throughout my career, I’ve maintained a parallel commitment to design education, teaching at College for Creative Studies since 2010, Wayne State University (2017-2020), and currently for the Minneapolis College of Art & Design and Michigan State University. Clients include AllMusic, General Motors, Microsoft, Cartoon Network, Adult Swim, and Target.
Significant Publications, Presentations and Exhibitions
Obsolete Aesthetics (Thesis), NYU Tisch (2024) – Physical computing and creative coding
How Magazine Interactive Design Annual (2014) – AllMusic
The FWA Public Shortlist (2013) – AllMusic
AIGA Design Re:view Judges Pick (2007) – Spine
How Design Annual Merit Award (2006) – Spine
Print Magazine Regional Design Annual (2006) – Spine
UCDA Design Awards – Award of Excellence (2006) – Spine