Obatola Layiwola

Graduate Student
Biography
After earning his BS in Digital Arts and Design with a specialization in Computer Graphics (and a minor in Photography) from Dakota State University in 2019, Obatola began his career as a Video Editor and UI/UX Designer in the education technology sector from 2020 to 2024. During that time, he collaborated with diverse teams, spearheading the creation of innovative marketing and design solutions for school communications nationwide.

His contributions have garnered recognition, notably the 2020 SDAF ADDY Student Best of Show award for his integrated advertising campaign, Fuel Your Passion. His work has been prominently showcased in various educational institutions and local exhibitions. In 2023, he delivered several academic presentations and garnered attention from Nigerian news outlets for his keynote at an online conference, Telling Textile Tales, where he advocated for global promotion of African textiles through innovative video marketing. Additionally, his presentation "Outside the Box" at Dakota State University explored the evolution of his design thinking and AI applications. Beyond his professional pursuits, he actively supports humanitarian causes by participating as a runway model in numerous non-profit fashion shows.

At the University of Iowa, Obatola's research will be a culmination of his diverse experiences, focusing on complex themes of cultural identity, digital technology, and social psychology. His thesis will integrate performance art, experiential design, and website development to create a multi-layered visual experience aimed at deepening understanding in these critical areas.
 
Publications
  • Book Design - New Tricks (2019) - Featured work. Published by the Alpha Gamma Lambda chapter, Dakota State University.
  • Book Design - New Tricks (2017) - Cover Art. Published by the Alpha Gamma Lambda chapter, Dakota State University. Further details can be found at https://scholar.dsu.edu/newtricks/21/
     
Awards
  • Fuel Your Passion (Integrated Marketing Campaign), Student Best of Show, 2020 SDAF ADDY Awards
  • Fuel Your Passion (Integrated Marketing Campaign), Gold Winner, 2020 SDAF ADDY Awards
  • MidcoSN Prime Games (Marketing Campaign), Silver Winner, 2020 SDAF ADDY Awards
Research areas
  • Graphic Design