Li Zhang, a renowned graphic designer and professor at Purdue University, made waves with her award-winning posters “Interaction” and “Fusion.” Awarded Gold and Silver at the Poster Awards 2025, these thought-provoking designs explore the complex relationship between humanity and artificial intelligence. By balancing simplicity with conceptual depth, Li’s work examines identity, connection, and the evolving dialogue between the organic and the mechanical. This case study explores how her designs push the boundaries of visual storytelling while sparking critical discussions about the future of human-AI interaction.

By: Li Zhang, Designer & Professor, Purdue University

Introduction

Professor Li Zhang, a Graphis Design Master, is a prominent artist and graphic designer of international standing. Her work combines innovation, aesthetics, and social messages. Her work is not limited to creating works of art—Professor Zhang is also committed to educating and promoting knowledge about art and design, seeking to inspire both students and professionals. As a juror in an international typography project I organized in Poland, she has proven her extraordinary ability to evaluate and see the value of diverse creative works. Her commitment and thorough expertise confirmed her high professional standards and work ethic. I greatly appreciate not only her graphic talent but also her open-mindedness and collaborative spirit. Professor Zhang has won numerous prestigious awards, a mark of her recognition in the global design community. Her achievements inspire many creative minds, and her work often focuses on relevant issues in the world today. Professor Zhang uses the power of graphic design as a tool to comment on reality and foster positive change in her practice across cultures and continents, influencing society beyond the design world. Having represented her groundbreaking work at many prestigious events (including the International Poster Exhibition in Ogaki, Japan, as a solo designer representing the U.S.) and in numerous publications (such as Graphis, Print, and How), she has confirmed her leading position. Regardless of the medium she uses, Professor Zhang’s professionalism and passion make her not only a gifted designer but also an influential educator and mentor who inspires generations of artists and designers. 

-Agnieszka Ziemiszewska, Professor, New Media Art Department, Polish-Japanese Academy of Information Technology

Q: What did the designs aim to achieve? What were the challenges?

My designs explore philosophical conversations about relationships, identity, emotion, and the evolving synergy between humans and artificial intelligence. “Interaction” and “Fusion” merge human elements with artificial and mechanical textures, examining the dialogue between both realms.

Balancing simplicity with depth was both a goal and a challenge. I aimed to create visuals that appeared straightforward yet carried profound meaning. Using symbolic language, I sought to build an intuitive connection with audiences while keeping it easy to understand.

Q: What was your creative strategy and approach?

Drawing inspiration from human evolution, I used hands—universal symbols of touch, connection, and creation—as metaphors for human perception and the rise of artificial intelligence. AI and humanity coexist as fragmented entities, continuously dissolving, reforming, and reshaping the future. Following “Interaction” and “Fusion,” the next piece in this series will be “Transformation.”

Q: What were the intentions behind your design decisions?

“Interaction” integrates futuristic elements with human forms, embedding both gestures and hand shapes within a pixelated structure. The contrast between organic, monochrome human skin and rigid, mechanical textures highlights differences and similarities.

“Fusion” symbolizes the convergence of tradition and innovation. Will artificial elements spread, fade away, or become an intrinsic part of us? Rather than providing an answer, the design poses a question and invites reflection.

Q: How do these posters reflect your creative voice? How did they influence your design perspective?

My creative journey has centered on using symbolic language to create conceptual depth. From concept to execution, I encourage diverse perspectives and layered interpretations.

To design is to communicate. This project affirms my belief that design goes beyond aesthetics—it uncovers hidden narratives. With the power to inspire, connect, and create meaningful social impact, design is more than just visuals—it is visualized thinking.

Li Zhang is a professor at Purdue University, a director at the China Europe International Design Culture Association, and an honorary professor at multiple universities. Recognized as a Graphis Design Master, Li’s work has been featured in their Master Portfolio. Li has exhibited worldwide in Warsaw, Fort Collins, Mexico City, Moscow, Trnava, and Sofia. Li has received numerous prestigious awards. Her works are also in the permanent collections of esteemed institutions, including the Library of Congress, the Zürich Museum of Design, the Victoria & Albert Museum, the Imperial War Museum, the Ogaki Poster Museum, and the Lahti Poster Museum.

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