Today we’d like to introduce you to Shikha Nair.
Hi Shikha, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
The earliest memory of my self-discovery with art started when my mother persuaded me to participate in an art competition in the 2nd grade in school, I eventually ended up winning the competition. I soon felt inclined to showcase a new side of my personality that would help define my future.
Something about creating clarity from chaos; I love the challenge that comes with designing and curating art by using technical yet straightforward strokes and building layouts through closed structures. I earned my bachelor’s degree in Visual Communication And Strategic Branding from Srishti Manipal Institute of Art and Design in Bangalore, India. Over the 4 years, I interned as a designer to apply the concepts I learned in the classroom and to develop some practical experience. My projects with UNESCO, CNBC, Tata Sky Shorts, and Playtime Paris built the bridges that connected my work to the world. Perhaps one of the most valuable aspects of my education at Srishti was the opportunity to develop essential skills and to work efficiently as part of a team. After graduation, I secured a job at Amazon India and moved on to a senior designer position at VML.
After 3 years of working in the industry in India, I decided to take the big step of pursuing my Master’s. I manifested my way here to able to pursue my master’s in advertising at SCAD, Atlanta. When I received my acceptance letter, I knew that this was just the beginning of my journey into the world of advertising. I feel really lucky to be part of this course and now that I am about to graduate it’s very overwhelming to see how far I have come.
I have grown to love brands and campaigns, copyrighting, and strategy and my time here at SCAD has humbled me to be able to work with industry-recognized companies like Microsoft, Procreate, Nationwide, and 22squared. I want my work as an Art Director to bring a sense of comfort, compassion, joy, and freshness and hope to bring a warm feeling and build empathy in people.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Life in general is full of challenges, especially when you choose to be an artist in this world filled with doctors and engineers. Growing up, I have always been the shy kind. Ever since I chose my path in the creative field it has not been easy, and I have had to deal with constant self-doubt.
I eventually had to step out of my comfort zone, and it took me almost 7 years to feel confident and proud of what I do today. But today I can proudly say that I made the best decision of my life to choose my passion over what people suggested I should do with my life because I have never been happier.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I call myself a visual storyteller with a keen eye for design, a deep understanding of aesthetics, and communicating complex ideas visually. Apart from being a designer, I love traveling, adventure sports, dancing, and being underwater. I am trained in Indian classical dance and 2 years ago I got my diving certification. Being a dancer and diver has taught me so many things that I can now relate to my work life. Patience, dedication, and the attitude of never giving up.
My unique blend of creativity and adventurous spirit sets me apart. As an Art Director, I am known for transforming concepts into visually striking realities. Simultaneously, my passion for open water diving not only showcases my adeptness in exploring the wonders beneath the surface but also my commitment to marine conservation. I am defined by my ability to deliver exceptional visual solutions but also my dedication to fostering a profound connection between people and the beauty of both the artistic and natural worlds.
Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
Whether it’s conferences, seminars, workshops, or meetups, attending industry events is a great way to meet like-minded professionals and potential mentors.
Being proactive in introducing yourself is a challenge but it always helps, you never know what connection you make will help you when you’re in need. Utilize social media platforms Instagram pages and TikTok sometimes have hidden gems when it comes to knowing all the events that are happening around you.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://shikhanair.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/__shikhaa__/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shikhaa-nair/
