Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Aditri Bhattacharjee. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Aditri, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Can you open up about a risk you’ve taken – what it was like taking that risk, why you took the risk and how it turned out?

One of the most daring decisions of my life was moving alone to a new country and starting a fresh chapter right after the turbulent Covid period. That time was transformative for me; while it introduced many hurdles, it also unveiled unexpected opportunities that reshaped my path. Leaving Kolkata, India, and flying across the world to Baltimore felt monumental, especially as I was doing it alone. No familiar faces were there to make the transition easier, but I knew I was headed toward a place where my dreams and ambitions could finally take flight.

Being an international student, especially in the U.S., has had its share of advantages and challenges. While I’d previously experienced international schooling during middle school in Singapore, that experience was just a glimpse into the cultural and emotional shifts I would face living on my own in the U.S. Here, I’ve come to realize that the concept of “home” has become complex and layered. The place I come from feels less like the home I once knew, and the place where I now live isn’t fully “home” either. It’s like being suspended in an in-between space—one that’s both inspiring and unsettling. It’s not always an easy feeling to navigate, yet despite this, my goals have remained a constant force.

Every hour I’ve spent working, learning, and growing as an artist has shown me that the challenges are worth it. There’s a quote that I’ve kept close to heart: “Don’t complain about having a lot on your plate when your goal was to eat.” This resonates deeply with me. Although academics have never quite been my strong suit, they served as the bridge that led me to pursue my true creative purpose. From the start, I was a creative soul at heart, drawn to exploring and evolving as an artist. This journey, though challenging, has been everything I hoped for and more—an experience that continually fuels my fascination and drive to grow.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

In 6th grade, while studying in Singapore, I painted my first canvas during an art class. That moment was transformative, shaping my creativity and inspiring me to name my current Instagram art account after that art school. When I returned to India, though, I struggled with academics, which made me question my path, especially within the expectations of a South Asian family. I often wondered, Will I find my purpose? Why aren’t my grades better?

These thoughts weighed on me, but no one told me that at fifteen, I didn’t need to have it all figured out. In high school, as I took art more seriously, I felt myself moving toward something meaningful. Despite excelling academically in business for four years, I knew it wasn’t my calling—not like art, dance, music, or photography. My dad’s question, What if you found a career in something you love? opened up a world of exploration.

Since then, I’ve dedicated myself to honing a wide array of skills. I’m not just a graphic designer; I’m also a photographer, videographer, and color-grader, working across industries like food, fashion, and insurance. Each experience has deepened my adaptability and understanding, preparing me for diverse challenges. Throughout undergrad, I’ve taken on various projects in branding, packaging, motion design, and more—always pushing myself to grow beyond my comfort zone.

I’m eager now to work with clients on identity systems and visual storytelling, as my ongoing thesis exemplifies my versatility and passion for art.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

For me, the most rewarding aspect of being an artist is the constant discovery and expression of something deeply personal yet universally resonant. Art allows me to connect with others in ways that go beyond words, reaching into emotions and perspectives that might otherwise be left unexplored. There’s a unique satisfaction in taking an idea or feeling, something intangible, and transforming it into a visual experience that others can see, feel, or interpret on their own terms.

It’s also incredibly fulfilling to have a craft that evolves with me; every project, every object or shot, adds layers to my understanding of myself and the world. And because creativity has no boundaries, I’m always able to adapt and explore, trying out different mediums and crossing over into new industries. This journey of never fully “arriving” but always growing and expressing feels like a privilege.

What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?

My father has always believed in my creative spirit, nurturing it from a young age. He emphasized the value of focusing on the journey rather than obsessing over the end result. He would remind me that when you pour genuine effort into the process, the outcome will naturally follow. I recall a moment sitting with him, feeling utterly discouraged by the setbacks I faced, thinking I’d somehow let him down. But he assured me that even my failures made him proud, as they showed my resilience and strength. Now, whenever I feel disheartened or lacking motivation, I draw on those memories. His unwavering belief in me has become a powerful source of inspiration for my creative journey. Whether it’s crafting a brand identity, designing an experience, or capturing an emotion, I want my creative work to feel both authentic and transformative as it reaches the audience. This mission fuels my passion for constantly learning and experimenting across mediums, so I can continue to grow and reach new depths in what I create.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://aditribhattacharjee.myportfolio.com/work
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/littleartistsmind/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aditribhatt/