Meet Devika Kundu | an Enthusiast of Creative Solutions and Big Ideas!

We had the good fortune of connecting with Devika Kundu and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Devika, what role has risk played in your life or career?
Risk-taking has been my secret sauce, both in life and design. Think of me as a creative daredevil, always ready to jump into the unknown. From my spontaneous decision to dive into graphic design during my undergrad, to moving halfway across the globe for my master’s at Savannah College of Art and Design, I’ve always believed in the power of a good leap of faith.

Choosing design over a more “traditional” career path was my first big risk. Picture this: me, the black sheep, telling my family I wanted to be a designer. Cue the dramatic gasps. But hey, it paid off! Landing a gig at Ogilvy was like scoring a golden ticket to the design Willy Wonka factory. It was fast-paced, chaotic, and absolutely thrilling.

Moving to Atlanta for my master’s was another wild adventure. It was like starring in my own episode of “Survivor: Design Edition.” Different culture, intense coursework, and starting from scratch—all part of the fun. But it broadened my horizons and deepened my love for human-centered design.

Here’s a funny twist: I once taught a weeklong workshop on graphic design to high school students. Talk about an unexpected plot twist! It was like herding cats, but I ended up learning so much from those bright-eyed teens. Turns out, I have a knack for mentoring. Who knew?

As David Ogilvy said, “Big ideas are usually simple ideas.” So, I strive to keep things simple yet impactful, even if it means taking some risks. After all, what’s life without a bit of excitement?

In short, I’m all about embracing the unknown, pushing creative boundaries, and maybe cracking a few jokes along the way. Here’s to more bold moves and big ideas!

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Absolutely, I’d love to share more about my art and journey. What sets me apart as a designer is my knack for blending cultural richness with innovative design solutions. Growing up in India, a country bursting with colors, traditions, and diversity, I developed a unique artistic perspective that I bring into every project. My work isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about creating experiences that resonate on a deeper, emotional level.

One of the things I’m most proud of is my ability to craft designs that tell stories. Whether it’s through branding, motion graphics, or user-centered solutions, I aim to create designs that not only captivate but also inspire and evoke smiles. For me, the magic lies in the details and the joy in seeing an idea come to life in a way that impacts people.

Getting to where I am today professionally has been a wild ride, to say the least. It wasn’t easy, but the challenges were what shaped me. Transitioning from the structured world of academia to the fast-paced design industry was a leap of faith. I had to navigate self-doubt, rejection, and the constant pressure to innovate. But with each setback, I learned valuable lessons in resilience and adaptability.

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is the importance of embracing failure. As a designer, not every idea hits the mark, and that’s okay. Each failed attempt is a stepping stone toward something greater. Another lesson is the power of a supportive network. Surrounding myself with passionate, creative individuals has been instrumental in my growth. They challenge me, inspire me, and push me to be better.

What I want the world to know about my brand and story is that it’s all about passion, creativity, and a touch of daring. My designs are a reflection of my journey—a blend of cultural influences, bold ideas, and a relentless drive to make a difference. I believe in taking risks, pushing boundaries, and most importantly, creating designs that matter.

So, here’s to the wild ride of creativity, the challenges that shape us, and the joy of bringing ideas to life. I’m excited for what the future holds and ready to leave my mark on the world, one design at a time.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my best friend were visiting Atlanta, Georgia, I’d plan an unforgettable day packed with fun and adventure. We’d kick off our morning at Perc coffee, fueling up for the day ahead. Then, we’d head to Piedmont Park for a leisurely bike ride and a stroll through the Atlanta Botanical Garden, immersing ourselves in the lush greenery amidst the urban landscape. Lunch would be at Mary Mac’s Tea Room, indulging in Southern comfort food at its finest. Afterward, we’d explore the wonders of the Georgia Aquarium and dive into some culture at the High Museum of Art.

Atlanta offers the perfect blend of vibrant nightlife, rich culture, and lush greenery, making it a city that truly has something for everyone. Amidst the hustle and bustle of urban life, you’ll find pockets of serene green spaces like Piedmont Park, where you can escape the city grind and immerse yourself in nature. But Atlanta isn’t just about the outdoors—it’s also a hub of culture and creativity. From world-class museums like the High Museum of Art to lively arts districts like Little Five Points, there’s no shortage of opportunities to explore and be inspired.

And when the sun sets, Atlanta comes alive with a thriving bar scene that caters to every taste and vibe. Whether you’re in the mood for craft cocktails in a trendy rooftop bar or down-home vibes at a neighborhood dive, you’ll find it all here. Atlanta truly offers the best of both worlds—a city where you can sip cocktails under the stars one moment and stroll through lush gardens the next, all while soaking in the vibrant culture that makes this city so special.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Alright, let’s give credit where credit is due! First off, shoutout to my parents—my ultimate cheerleaders. They’ve been my rock, my safety net, and occasionally, my reality check. Mom and Dad, you deserve a medal for putting up with my “creative mess” phase. Remember when my room looked like a cross between a recycling plant and an art studio? Thanks for not kicking me out when I decided to paint the walls… and the furniture… and literally anything that I laid my eyes on. I couldn’t have even imagined having these dreams without my parents. Their unwavering support and belief in me have been the bedrock of my journey.

I’d also love to give a shoutout to all the wonderfully crazy designers I’ve met recently and throughout my journey. You know who you are—the ones who live life in full color, unapologetically take risks, and aren’t afraid to zig when everyone else zags.

One of my favorite quotes that perfectly sums up this crew is from designer Paul Rand: “Don’t try to be original. Just try to be good.” But honestly, this bunch manages to be both. They remind me that creativity isn’t just about following trends; it’s about setting them. It’s about taking those small risks that might seem odd at first but end up being game-changers.

But beyond the quirky ideas and bold designs, what truly stands out is their willingness to support each other. In a world where competition can be fierce, they’ve shown me the power of community and collaboration. Whether it’s sharing tips, offering constructive critiques, or just being there with a cup of coffee and a pep talk, they’ve made this journey an incredible adventure.

So, to all the fearless designers out there—keep being bold, keep being weird, and keep inspiring. Your unapologetic approach to creativity not only shapes beautiful designs but also fosters a supportive and dynamic community. Here’s to taking risks, making a splash, and always striving to be good… and a little bit original, too. Cheers!

Website: https://www.devikakundu.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/devika.kundu/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/devika-kundu-625348198/