Ilze Eklsa

Bio

I am a visual communication educator driven by a passion for creativity, design thinking, and the exploration of cultural narratives in both digital and applied art. With a Ph.D. in Mass Media and Communication, my expertise lies in exploring how Western design principles intersect with Middle Eastern cultural contexts, particularly in advertising. My career spans nearly two decades, during which I’ve had the privilege of working across Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. This global experience has allowed me to blend academic theory with real-world creative practice, enriching my approach to both teaching and design.
At the heart of my work is a belief in the power of design to shape and reflect cultural identity. I am fascinated by how visual communication serves as a bridge between diverse cultural perspectives, and my research explores how design principles adapt and evolve when influenced by different cultural contexts. Through this exploration, I have developed a deep appreciation for how advertising, media, and visual communication can not only represent but also shape cultural narratives. This blend of theoretical research and practical application drives my teaching and creative projects.

Teaching Role
At CACE, I teach a variety of courses in visual communication, focusing on empowering students to combine creativity with critical thinking. My teaching philosophy is rooted in the idea that design is not just a skill, but a way of thinking that encourages students to engage deeply with the world around them. By promoting an environment where students are encouraged to explore and challenge their assumptions, I help them develop both the technical skills and the conceptual thinking necessary to thrive in the creative industries. Whether through projects that focus on environmental sustainability or those that explore cultural heritage, my goal is to ensure that students can apply their design knowledge in real-world contexts, preparing them for the diverse challenges of the design field.
In addition to my teaching, I am deeply involved in a number of projects that aim to bridge design with broader cultural and environmental issues. I am particularly interested in projects that explore the role of design in preserving and promoting cultural heritage. For example, I have been involved in initiatives such as the Abu Dhabi Pearls Project, which connects students with the rich heritage of pearl diving in the UAE while allowing them to apply their design skills to create meaningful visual narratives.

Creative Work or Research
My research focuses on the influence of globalization on international visual communication practices in advertising design. It investigates the dynamic interaction between design principles and structures, particularly how Western visual communication practices impact advertising in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region. By examining the effects of globalization on visual communication and exploring how culture shapes advertising strategies, I assess how advertisers in GCC countries incorporate Western design principles while adapting them to align with local cultural, social, and religious values.
My creative work and research emphasize the importance of cultural identity and visual storytelling. I am passionate about using design as a tool to explore and communicate cultural narratives, whether through analyzing how visual systems shape advertising or through industry collaborations that bring these concepts to life. My research not only contributes to the academic field but also has real-world applications, as I frequently collaborate with industry partners to develop design solutions that reflect the unique cultural context of the Middle East.

Office

Abu Dhabi - Khalifa City, Abu Dhabi

Phone:

+971 4 402 1527

Email:

Teaching Areas

Graphic Design, Typography, Illustration, Visual Arts and Applied Arts

Research and Professional Activities

Visual Communication