Hello, my name is Cynthia Novita. I’m an alumna of Visual Communication Design (DKV) with a major in graphic design from Pelita Harapan University, graduating in the batch of 2014-2018. Currently, I work as an artist, ceramicist, and graphic designer under my own brand, Karyaku Kata.
My journey at this institution was one of the best experiences of my lifetime. I gained great knowledge, enjoyed a pleasant environment, had wonderful teachers, and made good friends. Throughout college, there were ups and downs, but I persevered, giving my best, which made it an incredible journey. I learned valuable lessons on managing design projects both individually and as a team, emphasizing the importance of persistence in building a strong foundation for becoming a good designer, especially in design thinking. I had the opportunity to learn the fundamentals of design, visual creation, and observational skills in my daily life.
In every project, I pushed myself to explore and be curious, enhancing my skills as a designer and artist. I enthusiastically attended many classes, appreciating UPH’s excellent curriculum and offerings. My favorite classes included philosophy of art, drawing, painting, typography, and methods of graphic reproduction, all of which are highly relevant to the industries I work in. I am grateful to Pak Alfian and Miss Nita for being great lecturers and supervisors who encouraged and embraced my skills, helping me become a confident designer.
Starting my career as a graphic designer, I transitioned to working in corporate property after graduation in 2018. With the end of the pandemic, I returned to working as a graphic designer and art teacher in an art studio. Over time, I delved into pottery, driven by curiosity and a passion for applied art. This led to the establishment of my own brand, Karyaku Kata, in September of the previous year. Karyaku Kata, which stands for Karya Kuas (brush), Kain (fabric), and Tanah (clay, ceramic), encompasses various forms of applied art, with “Kata” (word) representing the titles of my products, inspired by transitions between feelings, emotions, and thoughts.
Utilizing my sense and knowledge as a graphic designer, I aim to infuse my art with emotion. Drawing from the design theory of “experience design” learned in college, I strive to create pottery that engages people on a sensory level, incorporating concepts, stories, and music to evoke emotion. My goal is to create pieces that are not only visually appealing and functional but also meaningful, fostering connections that endure. Each creation reflects my dedication and passion for handcrafted arts, expressing my soul through colors and strokes.
I wholeheartedly recommend UPH to young creatives passionate about visual art. UPH provides excellent lecturers who are passionate about nurturing students’ skills. My journey at this institution equipped me with both soft and hard skills, providing a strong foundation for growth in the creative industries. I am immensely grateful to have been part of this journey.
There is a quote that I always say in my mind “Don’t ignore your little fire that is burning inside you, feel it and embrace it. Just keep going and trust the creative process then see what you’ll have become in the future”.