Searching for the right clues

ISSUE: 142

An independent graphic designer, Khyati Trehan calls herself a visual detective. She seeks inspiration from the context of the work at hand, which can range from type design to building AR experiences to publication design, or even creating visuals for the Oscars!

How do you make the intangible tangible through your designs?

KT: It involves spending a lot of time and effort understanding the intangibles to begin with. The seed of an idea is often somewhere in the context of the work, and I wear the hat of a visual detective rummaging through everything there is to learn about the problem to find what it is we want to say, and how we want to say it. There’s no one specific method to giving form to a concept. Sometimes it takes finding the right metaphor. Sometimes it takes finding the right words to lead you to the right visual.

Was it difficult to work with well-known global brands?

KT: In my experience, it’s often easier to work with established brands. Every time I’ve worked with one, especially in the capacity of a visual artist, I’ve received ample freedom, constructive feedback and an opportunity to not just be the hands but also the brains of a project. The pressure comes from only one direction – inwards. Working with large brands can feel like a high stakes task, and I of course want to do my best.

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What would you advise youngsters entering the design industry at a time when internships from home are the new normal?

KT: My first few internships and jobs right out of college were a lesson in how little I knew. If you set out with an openness and humility, knowing that you’ve got a lot to learn, you’ll be fine, with or without a pandemic.

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