School of Design Communication
Ma Jiahao Darrick
Darrick is a graphic designer and illustrator based in Singapore.
In 2012 he co-founded SWELL, a design practice that delivers printed matter, analogue, digital and experiential concepts. SWELL has been recognised in several awards such as the Type Directors Club, D&AD and AIGA’s 50 Books/50 Covers. SWELL’s works have been featured on various design blogs as well as graphic design annuals such as the Asia-Pacific Design.
Besides his commitments at SWELL, Darrick is actively teaching as an adjunct lecturer at various design and arts institutions in Singapore.
Work
Drawing Beyond the Prompt
Drawing Beyond the Prompt is a design-led research project that explores how generative AI can better support designers—not by replacing them, but by adapting to how they think and work. Instead of typing static prompts, designers can draw freely while speaking their ideas. A speech-to-text model transcribes their voice into prompt text, allowing for seamless, real-time interaction without breaking creative flow.
This research focuses on designing with the human at the centre. By developing functional prototypes and testing them in workshops with design students and professionals, the project examines how sketch-and-speak interaction changes the way designers engage with AI. The goal is to create tools that feel less like machines waiting for instructions, and more like creative partners that respond naturally to human input.
