About

I’m a designer and photographer who believes creativity starts with play—and grows through connection.


I nurtured my love for design at the University of the Arts in Philadelphia, a city renowned for its gritty resilience and vibrant art culture. After graduating with honors from the Industrial Design Department with a Bachelor of Science, I made Philadelphia my home—surrounded by a community of makers who embody the city's grit and creativity, where art isn't just created but lived.

For six years, I've been turning ideas into meaningful designs that bring people together.

My current focus is Proof Running Co—a running community and design studio dedicated to connecting passionate runners around the world. My career has taken me across industries like finance, health, corporate, and education, giving me a broad perspective on how design shapes lives.

When I'm not designing, you'll find me exploring analog photography techniques like solarization and masking in the darkroom.

Say it with me  E-L-G-S-E-S!

 






Ethos

I believe the most robust approach to design is play and exploration. Approaching a problem with intention, empathy, and curiosity allows for more innovative solutions.

Having majored in industrial design, starting my career in environmental graphics and wayfinding, and continuing exploration in analog photography, I've grown into someone who sees past the most obvious solution.

As a designer, I strive to balance Dieter Rams' philosophy of 'less but better' with the opposing notion that 'more is more,' navigating the tension between simplicity and abundance in my work.





History

Proof Running Co, 2025- Now
Freelance Designer, 2024 - Now
Real Vision, 2021- 2024
Cloud Gehshan, 2018 -2020





Exhibitions

126th Annual Adult Student Exhibition @ Fleisher Art Memorial, 2025 



Philadelphia & New York Cityhello@mariaelena.xyz