Abhijeet Thakur

LEGENDARY INTERVIEW

Design Legends ("DL") had the distinct honour to interview legendary designer Abhijeet Thakur ("AT") for their original perspective and innovative approach to design as well as their creative lifestyle, we are very pleased to share our interview with our distinguished readers.

DL: Could you please tell us a bit about your design background and education?

AT : I have completed my bachelor's degree in Applied Arts (Advertising) from Bombay University and my Masters I Graphic Design from MIT Institute of Design - Pune, India.

DL: What motivates you to design in general, why did you become a designer?

AT : I just love to create new and amazing designs that were non-existent before. I always was curious about how design works in general and how it persuades us in making certain decisions, that defines us who we are. I love experimenting with different styles of design and create something new.

DL: Did you choose to become a designer, or you were forced to become one?

AT : I always wanted to become a designer, because there is no greater joy than creating something new that both pleases your eyes and serves a purpose.

DL: What do you design, what type of designs do you wish to design more of?

AT : I am proficient in many fields of design, branding, packaging design, web and UI design. I am also learning motion design and 3D. I wish to do more of branding and packaging because the process if wholesome, fulfilling and fun. Also because there is much scope to create something unique.

DL: What should young designers do to become a design legend like you?

AT : They should be very observant about their surroundings because everything we design is in some or the other way inspired by nature or our surroundings. And then use those insights to inculcate in their designs.

DL: What distinguishes between a good designer and a great designer?

AT : A good designer will complete the project on time with great aesthetics and functionality but a great designer will achieve this as well as provide the customers with a unique and engaging experience which will allow the design to impact in a positive way.

DL: What makes a good design a really good design, how do you evaluate good design?

AT : A really good design has a unique concept at its core. It should be fresh and adaptable in various mediums. It should be complemented by pleasing aesthetics and proper functionality.

DL: What is the value of good design? Why should everyone invest in good design?

AT : A good design will always yield the best results as it fulfils all the requirements of the job. People should invest in good design as it is profitable for them as stakeholders and as well as engaging for the customer.

DL: What is your secret recipe of success in design, what is your secret ingredient?

AT : It's not really a secret rather an ignored aspect that people should experiment with different styles and find ways to connect that with your core concept which will lead you to results that are unique and never seen before.

DL: Who are some other design masters and legends you get inspired from?

AT : There are many but just to name a few - Alan Fletcher, Paula Sher, Chris Do, Michel Bierut, etc

DL: How could people improve themselves to be better designers, what did you do?

AT : Always work smart on your project look for a unique angle which will excel your design and make it simple and adaptable.

DL: If you hadn’t become a designer, what would you have done?

AT : I have no idea really, designing has been a huge part of my life growing up and I am unable to envision myself doing something else. But if I have to answer that question I would be a chef.

DL: How do you define design, what is design for you?

AT : Design is the answer to the question "How things work?" everything magnificent happening around us is uniquely and intricately designed. Our experiences are the result of things that we use, see, feel, man-made or natural are designed in a certain way to serve a purpose. And that is the beauty of the design.

DL: Who helped you to reach these heights, who was your biggest supporter?

AT : My family, my friends and my mentors.

DL: What helped you to become a great designer?

AT : My ambition to become the best and my persistence. I am a firm believer in giving 110% for a project. I will always walk the extra mile.

DL: How do you think designers should present their work?

AT : Presentation is very important for you to put yourself out there. Your presentation is your silent promoter, it is what makes your design stand out and convey the message that you are trying to communicate.

DL: What’s your ultimate goal as a designer?

AT : My ultimate goal is to start my own multidisciplinary design agency.

DL: What people expect from an esteemed designer such as yourself?

AT : Successful results designs with proper aesthetics and functionality and overall a design system that not only helps communicate a message but also give the customer an experience.

DL: How does design help create a better society?

AT : Good design can solve many social and environmental problems by choosing the right materials and communicating the right message.

DL: Which design projects gave you the most satisfaction, why?

AT : I love vector surreal illustrations it is something that I am trying out and I have realised that it helps me relax and express in such a way which I have never done before.

DL: Where do you think the design field is headed next?

AT : The best thing in my personal opinion is that the design field is not headed in any specific direction it is like a web that is expanding its reach and dividing into separate branches with its own unique subsets.

DL: How long does it take you to finalize a design project?

AT : Depends on the project how many collaterals are needed? how many mediums do the design needs to adapt to? How many languages will the design and typography be translated into? There are many such things which decide the duration of the project.

DL: What is your life motto as a designer?

AT : To positively impact people's lives with my design.

DL: What is the role of technology when you design?

AT : Technology helps me enhance and develop a design concept which I would have never accomplished on my own.

DL: What kind of design software and equipment do you use in your work?

AT : I use a plethora of design and productivity software ranging from Adobe, Autodesk, Procreate to Affinity Designer. And for the equipment, I have a Dell XPS 15, an Ipad pro-2020 and for the photography projects I use a Cannon 80D.

DL: What is the role of the color, materials and ambient in design?

AT : Color is one of the base ingredients upon which design thrives. Color is something that can set or manipulate our decisions so it plays a very important role in the design. Materials help us feel and experience the product so it also plays a very important role in design and development.

DL: When you see a new great design or product what comes into your mind?

AT : The first thing that comes to my mind is how I would have done it and if it is a very nice product a little bit of envy that why didn't I come up with such a brilliant idea.

DL: Who is your ideal design partner? Do you believe in co-design?

AT : An ideal design partner is one who respects your opinion and if he/she feels that his/her idea will serve better then explains why and how will it prove beneficial in the long run. Yes, I believe in collaborations that's how you get to meet amazing designers and it helps you and the community grow collectively.

DL: Which books you read had the most effect on your design?

AT : 1. The art of looking sideways - Alan Fletcher 2. Thinking with Type - Ellen Lupton 3. Designing Brand Identity: An Essential Guide for the Whole Branding Team - Alina Wheeler. 4. The Design of Everyday Things - Don Norman 5. Design as Art - Bruno Munari

DL: How did you develop your skills as a master designer?

AT : I am constantly working on my craft. I am either learning a new software/skill or trying to experiment with different designs. I am taking part in online challenges and competitions or attending a design conference. Practice and gaining knowledge is the key to become a good designer.

DL: Irrelative of time and space, who you would want to meet, talk and discuss with?

AT : There are many great artists or designers like Salvador Dali, Pablo Picasso, Leonardo da Vinci, Alan Fletcher, Walter Gropius etc the list is very long.

DL: How do you feel about all the awards and recognition you had, is it hard to be famous?

AT : No, it feels nice your work is being recognised and appreciated by a prestigious award and people are recognizing your work and want to know about your work, your work process it has been a great experience for me.

DL: When you were a little child, was it obvious that you would become a great designer?

AT : I knew that I will become a designer for sure but for the greatness part I have to constantly work on my craft and keep on practising and constantly honing my skills.

DL: Please tell us anything you wish your fans to know about you, your design and anything else?

AT : I am working on some pretty unique and interesting projects, so keep an eye out soon they will be published and you will be able to see them.