Ellen Mather

Biography

Ellen is currently a Lecturer on the MA Graphic Branding and Identity at London College of Communication, University of the Arts London (UAL). Additionally she is affiliated with Teesside University, where she teaches across Visual Communication and Graphic Design courses.

She is a designer, researcher, who's work explores design’s role in shaping civic discourse and public engagement, with a particular focus on social and environmental challenges.

Her research is grounded in collaborative, systems-oriented methodologies – translating complex ideas into tangible outcomes such as immersive identities, spatial interventions, and participatory outcomes. Ellen’s work is informed by her time as a Design Lead at Soapbox (2012–2021), where she led design projects for global think tanks, NGOs, and academic institutions focused on social progress. She has also freelanced extensively in London based studios across the commercial and cultural sectors.

She is co-founder of North Eastern Works (2023 onwards) a hybrid studio and platform for research-led, experimental design that engage communities in the communication of knowledge. Through these practices, she investigates how design can function not just as representation, but as a tool for transformation – creating new infrastructures for dialogue, access, and public action.