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Christopher Ma
Assistant Professor, Junior Studio
Teaches In
Fashion Design
Education: 

Bachelor of Fine Arts, major in Fashion Design, Otis Art Institute of Parsons School of Design, 1986 - 1989

Bio/Affiliation: 

I was born and raised in Hong Kong and left my city at age 16 to complete my high school education in Saskatchewan, Canada. After graduation, I moved to Los Angeles and enrolled in Otis College, where I earned a Bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts, majoring in Fashion Design. Shortly after graduating from Otis/Fashion, I was hired by B.J.D Inc., a Los Angeles-based menswear company where I remained for 27 years. I held many positions at B.J.D Inc, beginning as a designer, first and production pattern maker, domestic production manager, overseas product development and purchasing manager, men's clothing buyer for a 30-store retail chain/subdivision, and eventually back in product development and purchasing focusing on private label business. For many years, I made numerous product development and buying trips to China, Korea, and Vietnam. I also made many sourcing and research trips to different parts of Europe, such as London, Paris, Milan, Dusseldorf, and Berlin. 
In 2017, I was presented with the opportunity to return to Otis in a teaching capacity. I was excited because it allowed me to give back to my Otis community which was something I have always wanted to do. I put my name forward and have been teaching ever since. I am delighted to have come full circle back to my alma mater, sharing all I have learned in the fashion industry with the new generation and being a part of their journey to becoming fashion designers.

Awards/Honors: 
  • Deans list 1988 & 1989
  • MAGIC award for best menswear design 1989
Clients/Employment History:  
  • 2017 - present, Otis College of Art and Design
  • 1989 - 2017. B.J.D. INC, B&B Bachrach LLC.