Story of My Life
Although I'm a "90's kid", I spent a larger part of my life in the 21st century. I wasn't born into technology but I grew alongside it and entered into the world of social media. Starting with Facebook, followed by youtube, Pinterest and Instagram - these became my tools to explore the world of art and design. I remember watching youtube videos of an artist called Kristina Werner where she would make greeting cards and leave me wanting to be able to make the same or even have the access to the materials she used. Well, that's basically how I initially really started getting involved with "making" things. I wanted to be like her. I started making cards similar to hers (not as good as hers though- due to lack of experience and access to materials. I was a 12 year old after all and not had much money to spend in dollars) and just "making" different things in general. I even had my own youtube channel for a few months which I had to discontinue due to study pressure.
Then came Instagram where I really liked the quirky works of an artist who goes by the name "thefilmyowl", "neha.doodles" and paper animations of "RachelRyle" (to name a few). Looking at their works, it made me want to do something creative. Make something. Show it to the world and get appreciation like they do. Although, I wasn't confident enough to show my work.
I was always into art and design but I wasn't very sure the graphic design and illustration would be my cup of tea until I met my mentor, Aditi Jhunjhunwala who not only guided me with my portfolio for CSM but also taught me how to use softwares like Illustrator and Photoshop. I really enjoyed those classes and I felt free and happy.
I guess these little experiences have led me to make this choice.
Kristina Werner
After graduating with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Graphic Design from Brigham Young University – Idaho, Kristina Werner started her graphic design career at paper crafting company Stampin’ Up! She initially designed their catalog. It was during this time that she discovered the wonderful and creative outlet of stamping, scrapbooking, and cardmaking. Since finding her love of all things paper crafting related, she has designed products for Stampin’ Up!, BasicGrey, and her own digital kits.
Although she doesn't make much work related to graphic design as such, she's one of the first artists who inspired me to create hence making her work a big part of my choice.
Rachel Ryle
When I first saw Rachel's animations, I was very impressed. I always had an interest in animation and movie making (one of the reasons I started that youtube channel) and after seeing her work it made me more intrigued. I wanted to know how she managed to make such great work. Well, after I saw her first animation I realized it was just hard work that led her to grow and become better and better and better. It led her to win a Shorty Award for Best in Art.
Aditi Jhunjhunwala
Aditi Jhunjhunwala, or Aditi Di (as I call her), has her own design consultancy in Kolkata (The city where I come from). She helped me with my portfolio development and introduced me to the world of graphic design and Illustration. She completed her under-graduation in design communication from Lasalle College of the arts, Singapore, with graphic design from Central Saint Martins, London, animation from Film Oxford Digital Media, Oxfordshire, England, and a course on modernist jewellery from Christie's, London. She's my tutor, mentor, and a friend. Its because of her that I enjoy working with softwares so much.
TheFilmyOwl
Angel Bedi, more famously known as TheFilmyOwl on Instagram is an Indian Graphic designer and Illustrator. She graduated from NIFT in 2011. For a while, she worked with Happily Unmarried. This stint helped hone her natural skills. I love the spontaneity and "filminess" that comes out in her creations.
