Tell us why you're the best applicant in under 50 words
I have a broad range of interests and a lively personal practice that's informed by my interests and multicultural background that I believe will bring a new perspective to the table. I'm ambitious and driven and will ensure to give my hundred percent to come up with the best possible solution to every project.
Give us your bio in under 500 words
Shantanu Sharma is a 21-year-old senior graphic design major at the School of Visual Arts in NYC. He grew up in Colombo, Singapore, Dubai, and New Delhi. His work ranges from identity systems, branding, editorial as well as motion and illustration. He has interned at the Visual Arts Press and Isometric Studio, where he worked on projects for SVA, Princeton University, and the Centre for Reproductive Rights. Shantanu’s work has been displayed in exhibitions in New York and New Delhi, and has been featured in Timeout NY. In 2019 he was invited to speak and livestream at Adobe MAX in LA and has since been invited to stream every Sunday on Behance as a Featured Streamer.
1. What's the most courageous thing you've ever done?
Moved halfway across the world all by myself.
2. How are creativity and innovation related?
For me, creativity weird ability to look at the same pattern everybody else is seeing, and see something new. Innovation is the by-product of creativity.
3. Why do companies need clarity and creativity?
Companies need creativity to come up with new solutions that have a positive impact on the world and need clarity to convey those ideas in order to have a cultural impact. As a result, they differentiate themselves from other brands and focus on being an idea or essence.
4. You have 30 minutes of free time. What do you do with it?
Put my earphones on and go for a run for twenty minutes then hop in the shower for 10 minutes to cool down. Cathartic and relaxing.
5. What is one risky and bold goal in life you have? Or, if you could dedicate your life to solving one problem, what would it be?
Having been surrounded by a handful of strong, independent women in the form of my mother, grandmother, cousins, and close friends, I had a different upbringing and different values compared to other boys my age at the time. I was often shamed for being too emotional or 'effeminate' growing up. One problem I would dedicate solving is toxic masculinity and societal perceptions/socialized definitions of who a man is or ought to be.
6. Explain your creative process
I usually start by thinking of a concept that is related but unrelated to the subject matter at hand. I try and look for things, objects, feelings, behaviors that I can use to evoke a certain sensibility that will best communicate the subject matter best. I try and avoid looking at design references, I try and find inspiration from the natural world and do my best to come up with an idea that alludes to it. Once I have my concept and system, I make many quick iterations of what it could look like compositionally, it's usually me seeing what sticks and what doesn't and filtering out the good from the bad. Once I have that set, executing further deliverables and assets are quick.
7. What is the best advice that you have been given?
Every day is perfect if you realize it's true potential.
8. What is your definition of creativity?
The weird ability to look at the same pattern everybody else is seeing, and see something new.
9. What 10 songs are on your favorite playlist right now?
1. Breathe Deeper- Tame Impala
2. Dark and Handsome- Blood Orange ft Toro Y Moi
3. Astrothunder- Travis Scott
4. Mile High- James Blake ft Travis Scott
5. Snowchild- The Weeknd
6. SB-06- Unknown Mortal Orchestra
7. Caroline- Arlo Parks
8. Good Days- SZA
9. Reanimator- Joji ft Yves Tumor
10. I Know the End- Phoebe Bridgers
10. How do you want people to remember you?
As someone who is kind, empathetic, genuine, and had a lot of random facts to share on the top of his head.
Passport is valid for next 12 months
Yes
Which country issued your passport?
India
Have you been convicted of a crime and/or a felony? If so, what was the offense? State the city, country, and date.
