Today, we’d like to introduce you to Pooja Venkatachalam Kumar.
Hi Pooja, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Growing up in Tirupati, a small tropical town in South India, I was surrounded by a society that revered the sciences and engineering, viewing art merely as a hobby. Despite my innate passion for art, I found myself adhering to societal expectations, pursuing a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering at one of the region’s most acclaimed universities. Though I appreciated the scientific lens it offered on the world, my heart remained with art, a dichotomy that often left me torn between the two paths.
The pandemic’s onset, coinciding with my graduation, presented an unexpected opportunity to delve into my artistic pursuits. It was during this time that my efforts to highlight critical narratives began, particularly in response to government-backed industrial projects threatening tribal livelihoods and natural habitats. My active role as an illustrator for non-profit organizations’ art campaigns across India eventually led to a design internship with Current Conservation, where I contributed to making the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals more accessible to the Indian audience.
This journey from a chemical engineering student to a fervent artist and designer was fueled by a desire to understand and impact the world meaningfully. Pursuing an MFA in Illustration at the Maryland Institute College of Art (MICA) expanded my horizons, allowing me to gain recognition on platforms like Communication Arts and ADC Young Ones and exhibit in New York for Creature Conserve. Beyond mere creation, my drive to develop visual identity systems led to significant projects, such as the branding for Kalam Shastra, which reinvigorated the ancient Indian art form of Kalamkari while ensuring its relevance in today’s globalized context.
My design internship at AARP further honed my skills in curating and designing narratives for specific audiences, cementing my confidence in my ability to create impactful art and design. This journey would have been unimaginable without the unwavering support of my family, especially my parents (more points for my mom) and my maternal uncle, whose belief in me allowed me to traverse the path less taken and find my voice in a world that often silences the unconventional.
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?
Facing the inevitable question of challenges along my journey, I reflect on the intertwined hurdles of uncertainty and the scarcity of robust mentorship. This path, far from being linear, has shaped me profoundly, teaching me invaluable lessons about resilience and adaptability.
In the initial phases of my career shift, my steps were shrouded in uncertainty. Transitioning into the art and design world, especially coming from a background and society where such a path is less trodden, was akin to navigating uncharted waters. This phase was marred by a palpable lack of guidance—a mentorship void that could have illuminated the myriad possibilities and pitfalls inherent in such a transformative journey.
Compounding this challenge was the emotional and practical uncertainty that enveloped both me and my family. Being pioneers of sorts in embracing a career in art, we lacked a frame of reference or a blueprint to navigate this new reality. The absence of a clear direction was not just a personal predicament but a collective family experience, highlighting the crucial role of mentorship and support networks in such transitions.
Opting for an MFA at the Maryland Institute College of Art was a strategic pivot aimed at bridging these gaps. This decision was not just about acquiring a degree; it was a quest for community, direction, and a sanctuary for exploration beyond the boundaries of my prior experiences. These two years have been a renaissance of sorts, igniting my artistic fervor and unveiling realms of creativity and insight previously obscured from my view.
This journey, marked by its trials and triumphs, underscores the transformative power of embracing uncertainty and the imperative for supportive mentorship. It reaffirms my belief in the necessity of stepping out of one’s comfort zone to unearth potential and foster growth. The challenges encountered were not merely obstacles but stepping stones to a richer, more nuanced understanding of my craft and purpose.
Thanks – so, what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
Navigating the complexities of modern challenges through art and design, my journey is deeply intertwined with the pressing issues our world faces today. From climate change and animal conservation to the nuanced debates around Artificial Intelligence, my roots in illustration serve as a foundation for storytelling with a purpose. My transition to the Maryland Institute College of Art (MICA) was a turning point, exposing me to a vast arsenal of graphic design tools, and broadening my narrative capabilities beyond traditional illustrations.
I find myself in a constant state of exploration, reluctant to confine my creative expression to a single tool, medium, or style. This restlessness, while fraught with uncertainty, is a source of pride for me. It reflects a commitment to innovation and a refusal to settle for the familiar until the most effective method of communication is discovered. At the core of my work is a dedication to giving my all to ideas that ignite my passion.
My evolution from a traditional illustrator to a designer, now venturing into augmented reality and the future of visual communication, showcases a relentless pursuit of pushing boundaries in a tech-driven era. This journey is not just about adapting to change but actively shaping the way we connect with the world around us through visual narratives.
We’re always looking for the lessons that can be learned in any situation, including tragic ones like the Covid-19 crisis. Are there any lessons you’ve learned that you can share?
Life’s brevity became starkly evident to me during the Covid-19 pandemic. It underscored the importance of not taking anything for granted and living life to the fullest. This period of reflection brought to light how society often channels us into conformist paths, urging us to blend in rather than stand out. However, I believe that the essence of being human lies in our unique consciousness—the ability to wonder, question, and seek answers. It’s in this quest for understanding that we find our true selves and the paths we ought to pursue.
In my journey, surrounding myself with individuals who are deeply passionate about their pursuits has been enlightening. These individuals exemplify the essence of humanity, driven by a relentless pursuit of their passions. It’s this pursuit that I believe leads to a fulfilling and happier life.
Embarking on my MFA as an international student presented me with significant moral and financial challenges. Yet, it was my unwavering passion that guided me through the darkest moments. It served as a beacon, illuminating the path forward when everything else seemed uncertain. This experience reinforced my belief in the power of passion as a guiding force, enabling us to navigate through life’s uncertainties and embrace the opportunities that come our way.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.poojavkumar.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/poojavkum/
