Areas of Interest

Non-Profit Development

Ooley is the founder and director of the non-profit, Thoughtful Hands. The organization's mission is to promote artists that work with sustainable materials and design methods. Community outreach to educate the public on earth-friendly art practices is also a goal for the organization. She considers the development of the mobile eco gallery as one of the cornerstones of her research.

Adult Learning and Education

As a teacher, Ooley has an interest in the learning process, especially in adults. Her continuous exploration in adult learning theory and methodologies has led to the development of her robust courses. 

Sustainable Materials and Technology

Ooley has been researching and experimenting with sustainable materials in conjunction with rapid prototyping machines. She has experimented with a variety of different natural and renewable resource materials such as hemp, linen, cotton, and bamboo, with special focus on laser cutting. 

Interdisciplinary Explorations

Art and Design are about life... and so are the sciences! The blending of art and science and discovering the connections between fields are areas of continual interest to Ooley's research. She especially enjoys finding partners with diverse research foci for collaborative projects.

Odor and Scent

Why is odor so elusive? Why does a smell strongly trigger a memory or feelings that are difficult to describe? Why is it so difficult to recollect a smell straight from memory? Ooley is currently investigating these and other scent related matters…

Color Theory and Color Perception

Color Harmonies, pleasing palettes, how we think about color- these are interests that are filtering into Ooley's work.