Marlon Arboleda is a versatile Designer and Researcher at the intersection of nature, aesthetics, and technology. His work seamlessly combines the wisdom of nature's problem-solving with state-of-the-art technologies to pioneer and broaden design horizons. Using design as a universal language for positive change, Marlon's expertise in automotive design and human-centered solutions is firmly rooted in his commitment to creating objects that enhance experiences.

Thoughts

3/27/2025

Curiosity, beauty, love, and altruism—these are what keep us truly alive. While disciplines such as engineering, medicine, and commerce provide the necessary framework for society, real innovation blossoms from the human spirit, which sees possibility where others see impossibility. As Aaron Levie notes, “Innovation is hard because solving problems people didn’t know they had and building something no one needs look identical at first.”

Guided by the Hannover Principles, we can create beauty without forsaking our planet, making design both a responsibility and an inspiration. If something isn’t beautiful, it’s unlikely to endure. And if we create anything—be it a product, vehicle, or broader experience—it must offer lasting value rather than become more disposable clutter. There’s already enough noise in the world; we need balance in innovation.

I believe design can steer us toward a more hopeful future by fostering mindful consumption and avoiding the path to a dystopia. By insisting on nature’s right to coexist, relying on natural energy flows, and recognizing our interdependence, we can craft solutions that respect both humanity and the Earth. Technology will continue to evolve, and societies will transform, but the human spirit will always need wonder and purpose to propel us forward.

This conviction underpins my dedication to building a better world—pushing boundaries while honoring time-honored wisdom and wholeheartedly believing that a brighter future is within reach. Curiosity, poetry, beauty, love, and altruism remain our guiding lights.

Ultimately, it takes courage to grow up and become who you really are—to bring your ideals to life, stand by them, and keep innovating even when the future seems uncertain. My mission is to ensure that design—rooted in beauty, functionality, and reverence for our planet—protects what we cherish and sparks hope for generations to come, bridging technology, ecology, and humanity.

15/05/2022

As an artist, I am driven by the belief that through creativity, we have the power to shape and transform the world for the better. At its core, design is not just about creating aesthetically pleasing objects or experiences, but about using our imagination and problem-solving abilities to address the challenges facing our world and to create meaningful change. I believe that design has the power to inspire and uplift, to awaken our emotions and to connect us with the deeper mysteries of the universe. It is a way of tapping into our own innate potential and using it to make a positive impact on the world around us. Through design and art, we have the power to create beauty and meaning, to inspire hope and optimism, and to serve humanity in a way that is both sustainable and equitable. It is this belief that drives me in my work as an artist.

06/08/2022

In a world that is constantly changing and evolving, design and art serve as a means of navigating and adapting to these changes. It is a way of creating and innovating, of pushing the boundaries and discovering new and better ways of doing things.

11/12/2022

As Karl Sagan once said, "The cosmos is within us. We are made of stars. We are a way for the universe to know itself." This profound understanding of our place in the universe serves as a constant source of inspiration for me as a designer, reminding me of the infinite possibilities that lie within each and every one of us. I believe that there are secrets within the universe that can be uncovered through design and artistic expression, and that this process gives meaning to life. By embracing this perspective and using our creativity to create and innovate, we can not only achieve sustainability goals and preserve our planet, but also inspire future generations to do the same.

30/12/2022

Timeless design refers to the idea that certain designs are able to stand the test of time and remain relevant and appealing for long periods. This can be achieved through a number of factors, including a focus on simplicity, functionality, and aesthetics. In a universe where we are so small and insignificant, timeless design may serve as a reminder of our place in the grand scheme of things and the enduring nature of human creativity and innovation. It also serves as a reminder of the universal values and principles endure regardless of our place in the universe. In this sense, timeless design can provide a sense of stability and continuity, even in a world that is constantly changing and evolving. It can also serve as a source of inspiration and hope, reminding us that our actions and creations can have a lasting impact on the world around us. Design can provide a sense of perspective and meaning in a universe where we may feel small and insignificant, reminding us of our potential to create beauty and make a positive impact on the world.

19/04/2023

For me, it's not about fitting in with a trend or pleasing a certain group of people. It's about preserving the essence of what makes life beautiful. When I wake up to the sound of birds singing and feel the warmth of the sun on my skin, I'm filled with a sense of wonder and gratitude. I want to hold onto that feeling forever and ensure that future generations can experience it too. My little nephew and the people who come after me deserve to enjoy the same beauty that we have been blessed with. As I look towards the future, I'm concerned about what it holds. I remember growing up surrounded by mountains and stars, but now, it's becoming harder and harder to see the stars above me. That's why I sometimes escape New York City to find a bit of green. We can do so much more as humans to protect our planet. Taking inspiration from the beauty that surrounds us and use it to fuel the passion for sustainability. We can keep the essence of what makes life beautiful alive for generations to come.