Scholarship
In the vibrant and ever-evolving landscape of design, I have consistently been at the forefront, seeking to imbue my work with a deep regard for both technological innovation and the rich tapestry of diverse cultural narratives. Through my journey so far, I have fostered a nurturing ground for the integration of emerging technologies, particularly Generative AI, into the arts and design—a journey that is both a reflection of the passion for my craft and a testament to a steadfast commitment to pushing the boundaries of what is possible in design.
The foundation of my scholarly work is deeply rooted in a desire to champion new technologies and workflows, such as AI technology adoption in the arts and design sector. This direction has not only been evident through my collaborative and solo research projects but through a suite of published articles in reputable platforms such as the Fast Company, Ars Technica, and The Conversation, where I have pondered and articulated the prospective dimensions of integrating Generative AI tools in the creative industry. As we stand on the cusp of a transformative era in design, I anticipate diving deeper into the exploration of how AI can further foster creativity.
In parallel, my commitment to the de-colonialization of design in education has been a driving force behind my engagement with academia and educational forums globally. My collaborative efforts, be it with Professor Paolo Cardini (RISD) presenting at the Bogotá Design Festival or as a keynote speaker at the forthcoming Vértice Festival organized by Universidad Rafael Landívar, underline a persistent endeavor to incorporate diverse and globally representative perspectives in design education. Looking forward, I envision steering initiatives that are more inclusive and represent diverse narratives, thereby nurturing a new generation of designers equipped to weave a tapestry of global stories through their creations.
Awards
Vilcek Foundation Award for Creative Promise in Design
Awarded to immigrant designers that make important contributions in the United States.
https://vilcek.org/prizes/vilcek-prizes-for-creative-promise/
(2024)
Morfos Magazine: Distinguished Professional
Honored in Morfos, a magazine and research publication by the Institute for Design Research (INDIS) at Universidad Rafael Landívar in Guatemala City.
https://biblioteca.url.edu.gt/indis/morfos-2020-diseno-landivariano/
(2020)
MIT Technology Review 35 Innovators under 35
Awarded by the MIT Technology Review Magazine Latin America.
https://www.innovatorsunder35.com/the-list/juan-carlos-noguera/
(November 2017)
Avianca Magazine: 100 Latinos that Create and Inspire a Better Future
Honored in Avianca Airlines’ commemorative 100 year anniversary magazine publication, circulated both online and onboard Avianca flights.
Magazine available through App Store:
https://apps.apple.com/us/app/avianca-en-revista/id641348376
(2019)
Mom’s Choice Award - Drone Builder Kit
Awarded to innovative educational / STEM toys.
https://store.momschoiceawards.com/product/8069
(2018)
TOTY Awards - Activity Toy of the Year - Circuit Scribe Maker Kit (Runner up)
Held at the NY Toy Fair, nominated alongside world renowned brands such as Crayola, K’NEX and Lionel Brands.
https://toyfairny.com/Events2/TOTY_Awards/2017_TOTY_Winners.aspx
(2017)
Creative Child Awards Kid's Product of the Year
Circuit Scribe maker kit winner in the Category: Educational & Electronic Toys.
https://awards.creativechild.com/product/1866-circuit-scribe-maker-kit
(2017)
Academics' Choice Award Winner
“Circuit Scribe” Maker Kit winner for the 2017 Brain Toy of the year.
http://www.academicschoice.com/toys/maker-kit.php
(2017)
Awards
Vilcek Foundation Award for Creative Promise in Design
Awarded to immigrant designers that make important contributions in the United States.
https://vilcek.org/prizes/vilcek-prizes-for-creative-promise/
(2024. Confidential and under embargo until Q2 of 2024)
2022
Grow it
Build it
2021
2020
Sell it
2019
Make it
It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more. Or maybe you have a creative project to share with the world.