Creative Director
When making becomes easy, deciding becomes hard.
AI can generate options. It cannot care. It cannot decide what matters.
Justin Ahrens’ PRINT Magazine article explores how search optimization has evolved from traditional SEO to AEO (Answer Engine Optimization) and GEO (Generative Engine Optimization). It explains how businesses must adapt to AI-driven search systems that synthesize and cite content rather than simply rank it. The piece outlines the strategic implications for visibility in generative search environments.
PRINT Magazine’s PRINTcast features Together By Design, a new creative studio founded by Rachel Elnar, Heather Lynn, and David Carr-Berry, known for their work on Adobe’s Creative Jams and The Perfect Match. The episode explores how they design people-first events that foster belonging, empathy, and community in digital spaces. Hosted by Justin Ahrens of Rule29, the conversation highlights the balance between structure and spontaneity in live creative experiences.
PRINT Magazine’s podcast episode 'The Design Of: Beauty and Provocation with Brian Singer' explores how designer and artist Brian Singer uses beauty and play to provoke social reflection. Hosted by Justin Ahrens of Rule29, the conversation covers Singer’s projects like 1000 Journals and TWIT Spotting, his approach to public engagement, and how design can balance empathy with truth.
This PRINTCast episode features Chicago-based artist and designer Alyssa Low, who shares how her personal sketching practice evolved into large-scale murals and collaborations with brands like Wayfair, the Chicago Bulls, and Soho House. Hosted by Justin Ahrens of Rule29, the conversation explores how joy, community, and identity shape her creative process and career balance.
In this PRINT Magazine opinion piece, Justin Ahrens explores how artificial intelligence is reshaping the design landscape. He argues that while AI tools like Canva and Claude make creation faster and more accessible, they also amplify the need for human judgment, taste, and meaning. The article positions designers as essential guides in an era of automated creativity, emphasizing responsibility, clarity, and emotional intelligence.