Eric Andren—better know as Oz—is a creative technologist who currently resides in Seattle, WA. Born in Illinois and raised in Iowa his Midwestern upbringing has influence over his world view which focuses on the importance of character and the rewards of hard work.

An academic career at Iowa State lead him to receiving a BFA in Graphic Design with an emphasis in Computer Engineering and an MFA in Graphic Design with an emphasis in Human Computer Interaction. Through his studies and research in these areas he has earned numerous awards for design and also accolades in excellence for his research efforts during graduate studies.

Focusing on the relationship between human and technology his research has explored areas such as user-device awareness, enhanced learning and communication through multi-sensory interfacing, and experience design through gestural interfacing. More specifically, his MFA thesis “I can so I will, now we must: a creative response to selfie culture.” takes a look at online social networking and its effects on our sociological, psychological, and physical wellbeing.

Opportunity—followed by a constant drive for meaningful contribution—has left him with a broad range of experience and knowledge. A deep respect for physical wellness and the power of question have lead him into roles of leadership such as instructing graphic design studios in higher education, mentoring and children in k-12, and coaching CrossFit classes.

He believes our decisions change the world and together we can keep creating better—meaningful—solutions for a more just tomorrow.

“Artists and scientists are both asking questions about the world, they’re just doing it in different ways”
Alex Braidwood
Director, Iowa Lakeside Lab Artists-in-Residence Program

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