Meet Pooja Venkatachalam Kumar | Illustrator and Designer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Pooja Venkatachalam Kumar and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Pooja, why did you pursue a creative career?
Growing up in the vibrant, tropical town of Tirupati in South India, art was my first love. However, in a society where academic achievements, particularly in sciences and engineering, are highly valued, pursuing art as more than just a hobby seemed like a distant dream. Despite my passion, I found myself following a more conventional path, excelling in sciences and eventually enrolling in a prestigious university to study chemical engineering. I appreciated the scientific insights my education provided, but my heart still yearned for artistic expression.

During my undergraduate studies, the world was hit by the pandemic, which brought unexpected opportunities to delve deeper into my artistic pursuits. It was a period marked by introspection and discovery, leading me to leverage my art for social causes. I collaborated with non-profit organizations, creating illustrations that highlighted the impacts of industrial projects on tribal communities and the environment. This experience opened doors for me to intern at Current Conservation, India’s premier illustrated conservation magazine, where I worked alongside scientists, designers, and activists to demystify the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals for the Indian audience.

My journey took a significant turn when I decided to risk it all and pursue an MFA in Illustration at the Maryland Institute College of Art (MICA). It was a leap of faith, transitioning from chemical engineering to fully embracing my identity as an artist and designer. At MICA, my work gained recognition on platforms such as Communication Arts and ADC Young Ones, and I had the opportunity to exhibit in New York. Beyond creating art, I was intrigued by the development of visual identity systems through collaboration. A pivotal moment was my project with Kalam Shastra, a collective of women artisans from Tirupati specializing in Kalamkari. This project allowed me to apply my design theories to support and preserve a 3000-year-old art form while ensuring its relevance in today’s global context.

My experience was further enriched during my design internship at AARP, where I learned the intricacies of narrative design for a vast audience. These experiences have imbued me with a profound confidence in my ability to impact the world through art and design. Reflecting on my journey, I realize that taking the risk to follow my passion, supported immensely by my family, was the best decision I’ve ever made. It’s a testament to the idea that with courage and dedication, it is possible to carve out a path that is true to one’s self and beneficial to the world at large.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My path into the realm of design and illustration began in an intriguing manner, rooted in a blend of science and art. Initially embarking on a career in chemical engineering, my enduring passion for art eventually led me to pivot towards a more creative profession. This transition was catalyzed by an internship with an illustrated environment conservation magazine based in Bangalore, South India, where I had the privilege of collaborating with a diverse group of scientists, conservationists, designers, and activists to craft engaging content aimed at preserving our natural world.

What truly excites me about the work I do is the refusal to be pigeonholed into a single discipline or title. My curiosity and eagerness to explore have led me to dabble in a variety of design fields, from poster making and editorial illustrations to character design, augmented reality, and interactive coding. This multidisciplinary approach allows me to bring a fresh perspective to each project, blending insights from different areas to create something unique and impactful.

I pride myself on my ability to continuously challenge my own boundaries and expand my knowledge base. It’s this aspect of my work that I find most fulfilling—the constant evolution and the refusal to remain static in one ‘zone.’ My journey is characterized by a relentless quest for growth, experimentation, and the desire to make a meaningful contribution to the world through my creative talents.

To potential clients, followers, and fans, I want you to know that my brand and work are defined by this spirit of exploration and commitment to making a difference. Whether it’s through a captivating illustration, an innovative design project, or a piece of interactive media, my goal is to evoke thought, inspire action, and bring about positive change. I believe that design is a powerful tool for storytelling and advocacy, and I’m dedicated to using my skills to support causes that matter.

What sets me apart is not just the diversity of my skills but also my approach to design as a form of activism and a means to contribute to a better world. I’m most proud of the journey I’ve undertaken—from a promising engineer to a multifaceted designer and illustrator, all while staying true to my values and the causes I care about. It’s a path that has been as challenging as it has been rewarding, and I look forward to where it will take me next.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Baltimore, a city that’s played a pivotal role in my journey, I can’t help but share some of my most cherished spots and experiences. If I had the chance to show friends around, the first stop on our tour would undoubtedly be Soups On, a quaint gourmet soup restaurant nestled near MICA. This place holds a special place in my heart, offering comfort through its delightful soups and delectable in-house sandwiches. It’s been my sanctuary; whether I’m looking for solace or celebrating a happy moment, their meals have a way of making everything feel just right.

But Baltimore is much more than just its culinary delights. The city vibrates with life and diversity, something I’d love for my friends to experience firsthand. A stroll through the Inner Harbor would be on our itinerary, showcasing the city’s vibrant waterfront. However, it’s Hampden that truly captures the essence of Baltimore for me. The neighborhood feels like a perpetual festival, brimming with unique eateries, quaint cafes, and the kind of lively atmosphere that leaves a lasting impression.

To truly appreciate the city’s diversity, I’d take them on a bus ride around Baltimore. It’s a simple yet profound way to witness the various facets of the city, from its bustling streets to quiet corners, each telling a story of resilience, community, and beauty. This journey through Baltimore isn’t just about showing off the city’s highlights; it’s about sharing the experiences and places that have shaped my time here, offering a glimpse into the backdrop of my creative and personal growth.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
it’s impossible not to acknowledge the incredible support system that has been instrumental in my growth and success as a creative professional. At the forefront of this support are my parents and my uncle, whose unwavering belief in my potential has been a constant source of strength and inspiration. There were moments of self-doubt, times when I questioned my path and my abilities, but they stood by me, their faith unshaken, always reminding me of my capabilities and encouraging me to pursue my passions.

However, the circle of support extends beyond my family. My friends, along with the faculty and teachers at the Maryland Institute College of Art (MICA), have played a crucial role in nurturing my creative talents. The environment at MICA, characterized by collaboration and mutual growth, has been pivotal in refining my approach to art and design.

I feel particularly grateful to Whitney Sherman for seeing the potential in me and welcoming me into the MFA cohort. Her recognition was a turning point, opening doors to opportunities and learning that I had never imagined. Additionally, the chance to learn from Ellen Lupton, a legend in the design world, was nothing short of a privilege. Despite her stature in the industry, her kindness and humility have left a lasting impression on me, teaching me invaluable lessons not just about design, but also about how to carry oneself in the world of creative arts.

The generosity and wisdom of the faculty at MICA, each contributing in their unique way, have enriched my journey immeasurably. It’s the collective support from these remarkable individuals—my family, friends, and mentors—that has allowed me to evolve as an artist and as a person. For that, I am eternally grateful and motivated to pay it forward, hoping to inspire and support others as I have been supported.

Website: https://poojavkumar.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/poojavkum/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pooja-kumar-b694b8215/