Biography

Dr. Elka M. Stevens, Associate Professor in the Department of Art at Howard University, is Coordinator of the Fashion Design BFA and MFA programs. Her scholarly interests lie at the intersections of visual and material culture, international trade, gender, and identity. She uses textiles and clothing as a lens of analysis, inspiration, and media for her work. Three of her current research projects examine the impact of globalization and trade policy on visual and material culture, the impact of political iconography on public attitudes, and the digitization of a historic costume collection. She currently teaches courses on fashion, textiles, international trade, African American appearance, entrepreneurship, and gender. In addition to teaching in excess of 20 years in the United States and Africa, Dr. Stevens has worked as a product development specialist, a micro-enterprise trainer for the Peace Corps, and a technology trainer in Ghana. Elka has also worked as a creative and marketing consultant for businesses in the US and Ghana. As an engaged artist/practitioner, Dr. Stevens' mixed media pieces explore issues of gender, identity, globalization, and repurposing. Her collaborative endeavors explore relationships between artists, ideas, media, and technologies. In addition to extensive teaching, research, and entrepreneurial endeavors, Elka has maintained membership in various service, academic, and professional organizations.