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

Rutu, appreciate you joining us today. When did you first know you wanted to pursue a creative/artistic path professionally?

I spent my early years immersed in the Indian, Malaysian and Arab cultures. My most impressionable childhood memories are of vibrant scents, colors, heritage design expressed in centuries-old architecture and a bustling family life. Growing up in an Indian household, each room had its own unique charm, reflecting the culture and traditions we held dear. These experiences made me wonder how design transcended four walls, creating an atmosphere that evokes deep feelings. This realization sparked my passion for creativity and design, inspiring me to pursue it a creative path professionally.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

I graduated from the Manipal Academy of Higher Education with a Bachelor’s degree in Interior Design. Thereafter, I started my career as an Interior Designer with Hirsch Bedner Associates, supporting the design team through the ideation and execution phases. Fast forward to the pandemic, I went on to lead as a Graphic Designer at a startup that proved to be an opening door to the world of Graphic Design. My curiosity and passion led to an amazing opportunity to pursue a Master of Arts degree in Graphic Design and Visual Experience at Savannah College of Art and Design. My journey (SCAD) has been nothing short of transformative. The exceptional professors at SCAD have guided me every step of the way, offering invaluable insights and mentorship that have significantly shaped my approach to design. Their real-world experience and dedication to student success have been a constant source of inspiration, pushing me to refine my skills and explore new creative horizons. During my time at SCAD, I embraced every opportunity to grow and learn. These experiences have prepared me to embrace with open arms future opportunities in the industry with enthusiasm and confidence!

The transformation I’ve experienced from an interior designer to a graphic designer has been remarkable. Over the years, I’ve learned to adapt to different people and places, the importance of creating impactful designs and why empathy is so crucial in design. This journey has taught me the importance of understanding my audience, allowing me to develop better and more meaningful work. I can now proudly say that I am a visual designer with a focus on branding, product design, UI/UX, and graphic design. I have strong dedication towards delivering impactful projects across various disciplines, showcasing a creative and innovative approach to design.

Can you tell us about a time you’ve had to pivot?

I often get asked the question why the jump from interior design to graphic design? What made you want to explore the field of graphic design? After working as an Interior designer at some great companies for a while I was laid off. Amidst the pandemic chaos, a startup extended an enticing offer that nudged me into the world of graphic design. I finally felt that I had found my true calling. Graphic design allows you to address problems more conceptually, often emotionally invoking, and communicates the solutions visually, most notably with shape and color. Aesthetics are important because as designers we send messages through them, and as the viewers have evolved to judge things in the world by appearances.

I have one more story in store! Halfway through my master’s program, my husband and I discovered we were expecting a baby. We were overjoyed to be starting a family, but we also had to quickly adapt to our new reality. For me, this meant juggling college, work, and preparing for the baby. It wasn’t an easy journey, and I eventually opted for a quarter break before diving back to the college routine. However, it was a beautiful experience that taught us so much about ourselves and our new baby. It not only challenged us but also brought immense joy and growth into our lives.

Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can provide some insight – you never know who might benefit from the enlightenment.

Non-creatives might struggle to understand the intense emotional and conceptual journey that defines a creative career. Being a creative involves constant inspiration, vulnerability, and a unique ability to see and solve problems visually. It’s not just about making things look good, it’s about conveying messages and emotions through design. This process requires deep empathy, continual learning, and adapting to new ideas. Often times that also means facing a creative block, that can happen during any design stages. I tend to overcome that by going on walks and finding inspiration around me, talking to someone and more! Understanding this can help them appreciate the depth and complexity of a creative’s work, and the passion driving it.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.rutushah.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rutu.shahh/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rutushah17/