We are excited to publish the event catalogue for “ADHIKARI,” which was held last December. In this catalogue, you can see the works presented in the exhibition, representing the learning experiences that the students gained through their study tour to Jogjakarta.
Angelyn Aurelia
Hello everyone, I’m Angelyn Aurelia, a graduate specializing in Graphic Design from the class of 2020. Currently, I work as a freelance graphic designer and am interning at a design agency.
During my studies in the Visual Communication Design department at UPH, I learned extensively about the fundamentals of design, particularly in composition and technical skills, which I have unknowingly continued to apply in my design work to this day. Additionally, I gained new insights into the creative industry and the challenges I would face after graduation.
The desire to continue learning and exploring deeper into the design process made courses like Basic Studio 2 and Graphic Design 3 incredibly memorable experiences for me. I found brainstorming sessions particularly fascinating because they allowed me to explore new ideas that often resulted in unexpected solutions. This process of ideation will continue to be applied in many design projects, including those in Graphic Design 3. Developing designs for new brands that stand out among competitors while meeting client briefs required ideational exploration. This course also necessitated interaction with students from other disciplines acting as clients, providing insights into effective client communication, delivering design concepts that align with briefs, and designing to highlight brand uniqueness. These learning experiences have been invaluable, especially as I began working and directly engaging with clients.
The creative experiences and guidance I received during my time at UPH inspired me to share them with others, as these experiences helped me become more courageous in realizing ideas and anticipating future creative journeys. The enjoyable journey of studies always came with challenges. Therefore, the quote from Ben Carson, “Do your best and let God do the rest,” has been a source of strength and a meaningful reminder for me to this day.
See Angelyn’s Final project in Epoch.
Lidya Josephine
Hi, my name is Lidya Josephine, and I’m an alumna of DKV UPH, class of 2020, majoring in Animation. Currently, I work as a freelance illustrator and motion graphic animator. Before enrolling, I had a passion for drawing, especially designing silly little characters and the worlds they live in. Back then, I already had an interest in 2D and 3D animation, but I hadn’t figured out where I wanted to go from there.
In my first year at DKV UPH, I was introduced to the basics of design and immediately realized how many branches and subdivisions there are in design. I also learned the hard way that even if you are passionate, you can’t be good at every subject. Just being good at drawing doesn’t mean anything if the artwork has no meaning. There are also a lot of rules, and before breaking them, we need to master the basics first. That’s what makes someone a good designer. After I picked Animation as my major, I began to lean more into my strengths and passion, especially in concept art.
In terms of subjects, a few made an impression on me, such as Studio DKV 1 and Motion Graphics. In Studio DKV 1, we were given the freedom to create personal artwork in whichever medium and were challenged to express ourselves using personal traits like family background, culture, personal experiences, and personality, and how to combine all of those things into one meaningful piece of artwork.
In Motion Graphics, there were a lot of things to learn, and the process was arduous, especially as someone who had never touched After Effects before. However, through doing the assignments, I realized that I quite enjoy the process and could see myself doing motion graphics as a career. This subject also helped me in my internships, where it built the basics for creating simple children’s animations and educational infographics.
I started out feeling unsure about my future and campus life, but my overall experience with UPH was quite satisfactory. Through DKV UPH and the on-campus communities I participated in, I had a lot of self-reflection, discovered my own strengths and weaknesses, and gained valuable experience that will guide me in the business world. Now, I look back on the experience fondly, feeling a bit more sure of myself. I have the lecturers at UPH and my companions to thank for that.
“If you only face forward, there is something you will miss seeing.”
Vash the Stampede
See Lidya’s Final Project on Epoch.
Epoch
Foreword
Highlights of an undergraduate student’s studies are their final projects. A student’s final project is a culmination of their interest and mastery of a certain aspect they wish to explore and pursue. Therefore, this archive is more than just images of visuals that the students have created; it is a representation of their existence as visual communication design students. The tradition of archiving students’ final projects is a testament to the department’s aspiration to appreciate all the work that the students have done, each unique in its own time.
“Epoch” represents the beginning of a distinctive period in the history of someone or something. The term was selected as this book describes the transition, or perhaps the new beginning, of the students’ journeys as visual communication design graduates. As the students complete their final projects, they embark on a new epoch in life: as designers in the outside world. As designers who have graduated, we hope that each of our students may be able to be a blessing in their light and their new world.
Leaving school has always been a prominent change for all students. Many look forward to it, but some may feel that they aren’t ready for it. Dear students, life is full of various seasons, and each season or era is an opportunity to grow in its own way.
Epoch also marks a new era for the department. The previous final project archive showcased the three concentrations: graphic design, cinematography, and animation. In this archive, we also showcase the first graduates of the illustration concentration, which may provide a new nuance to the diverse projects shown in these archives.
Not just about the new concentration, Epoch also marks the end of the ‘pandemic’ era of final projects. Previous archives (“Salute,” “See-saw,” and “Book of Acts”) showcased works that were completed during the COVID-19 pandemic or by students who spent more than half of their study online and in quarantine. We hope that the return to a more optimal learning experience correlates with higher quality projects in this book.
And so, we hope that Epoch may continue to inspire readers through the diverse works showcased. We also hope that the end of an era can teach us to move forward in a better direction: to pursue the best, remember the good, and leave out the rest.
Brian Alvin Hananto, S.Sn., M.Ds.
Head of Visual Communication Design Department
Universitas Pelita Harapan
Credits
Students
- Abigail San Giva Jose
- Aileen Aprillia
- Ananda Angelia Ivan
- Angelina Kalinda Eka Putri
- Angelyn Aurelia
- Azzarine Jovita Varianty Yulizar
- Caitlyn Kunanda
- Carren Miquella Chen
- Cathy Chang
- Chelsey Suwandi
- Christine Kurnia
- David Hizkia Doringin
- Dio Indo Chisundjoyo
- Dominikus Muliawan Salim
- Dylan Arthur
- Fay Arietta Yapputri
- Felicia Karen Rawung
- Frederick Christoper
- Grace Indahyanty Lie
- Graciella Handersen
- Gusniaty Edyson
- Heidi Maurina Atira Marbun
- Irvine Wirawan Jamesie
- Jessica Pricilia
- Jessica Valencia
- Jonathan Sebastian Iwan
- Josephine Madeleine
- Justin Laurent
- Kaysha Bernadette Soelistyo
- Kheivlen Cunsuela
- Lidya Josephine Saragi
- Melissa Bok
- Melissa Feby Chandra
- Natasha Wijaya
- Patricia Aurelie Bernice
- Patricia Frite Tanaka
- Priscilla Gunarso Yusna
- Rachel Williams Darmana
- Rhema Adithya Kusuma
- Ria Melati
- Richo Richardo
- Sean Michael
- Sharon Hardjono
- Sherina Lie
- Tio Alfandri
- Valensia
- Yessica Angelina Santoso
- Yolanda Ruth Theophanie Taruli Tumilisar
Lecturers
- Ade Maradhona Shantio Wijaya, S.Sn.
- Alfiansyah Zulkarnain, S.Sn., M.Ds.
- Anastasia Callista Winata, S.Sn.
- Brian Alvin Hananto, S.Sn., M.Ds.
- Chandra Djoko Zuki, S.Sn., M.Ds.
- Christo Wahyudi Rahardjo, S.Sn.
- Donny Ibrahim, S.Sn., M.I.Kom.
- Ellis Melini, S.Sn., M.T.
- Dr. Ernest Irwandi, S.Sn., M.Ds.
- Eston Kamelang Mauleti, S.Sn., M.Ds.
- Ferdinand Indrajaya, S.Sn., M.Hum.
- Hady Soenarjo, S.Sn., M.Ds.
- J. Baptista Anton, S.Sn., M.I.Kom.
- Jessica Laurencia, S.Sn., M.Ds.
- Juliana Suhindro Putra, S.Sn., M.Ed.
- Kartika Magdalena Suwanto, S.Ds., M.Ds.
- Dr. Lala Palipi Santyaputri, S.Sn., M.Si.
- M. Adhi Suryabuana, S.T.
- Naldo Yanuar Heryanto, S.Sn., M.T.
- Rizky Nawai Putra, S.Sn., MFV
- Dra. Rerry Isfandriani
- Sabrina Sidharta
- Siswanto Sidharta, B.Sc., MBA.
- Drs. Winoto Usman
The Publication
Alumni: Carren Miquella
Hello, my name is Carren, and I attended DKV UPH from 2020 to 2024, focusing on graphic design.
When I first enrolled at UPH, I was apprehensive and uncertain. Was DKV the right choice for me? I wasn’t particularly skilled at drawing nor did I possess the basics of design. However, UPH provided a solid foundation, starting from the fundamentals like dots and lines. My journey here has been truly transformative. UPH isn’t just a place; it’s a community where I’ve nurtured my potential.
One of the most memorable courses for me was DG 3, which involved a collaboration with a third party, giving us a taste of real-world client interaction. I had always admired the packaging in stores, but in this class, I learned how to design packaging that aligns with a brand’s vision, mission, and target market. Additionally, I thoroughly enjoyed the “Media Hiburan Interaktif” course, where I designed a board game.
Beyond these, every lesson at DKV UPH has been immensely valuable for my career in graphic design. From the basics like color theory, typography, and layout to more advanced skills like applying them in creating a brand’s visual identity and beyond.
Personally, I enthusiastically recommend UPH to others because of my positive experience here. UPH offers excellent facilities and outstanding lecturers. If you’re seeking an institution where you can grow and prepare for the professional world, look no further!
Typolog 2024
Typolog 2024 was recently held from June 15th to 22nd, 2024, at Carstenz Mall, Gading Serpong. The event featured a typography poster competition, seminars, work critiques, and workshops conducted by three outstanding mentors: Nikko Purnama Lukman, Agus Adhityatama, and Yasser Rizky.
Check out some photos and documentation from Typolog 2024 below.
Alumni: Angelina Kalinda
Hello everyone! Let me introduce myself, my name is Angelina Kalinda Eka Putri, a 2020 graduate of Visual Communication Design at UPH. I specialized in Animation during my studies at UPH, and now I work as a freelancer.
Studying at UPH’s Visual Communication Design program left a strong impression on me. I spent nearly the first three years studying online, followed by offline learning experiences on campus. I started as someone who had no knowledge of design basics at all, but now everything seems clearer and it has helped me develop in creating more engaging illustrations. The professors at UPH’s Visual Communication Design program care about the students, making each student, including myself, feel noticed and their feedback feels more personal. My peers were also very talented, which made my studies at UPH more exciting!
The Motion Graphics course was highly memorable for me. I learned to use After Effects to create various 2D animations. From not knowing how to use this software at all, now I can create motion graphics animations that enhance various projects. This course stood out because my professors were excellent at teaching complex software, allowing me to grasp it quickly. Personally, I already enjoyed drawing various 2D illustrations before joining UPH. I always felt there was something lacking and could be improved. From the various things I learned at UPH, I gained a foundation and guidance on what makes a design more engaging. From there, I gained a foothold to further develop my illustration skills. Until now, I continue to apply the knowledge I gained from UPH.
I would recommend UPH to anyone interested in design, especially those passionate about and looking to grow in the field. Not just in animation, I believe every specialization at UPH’s Visual Communication Design program like Graphic Design, Cinematography, and Illustration can help students interested in design to further develop. The way UPH professors teach ensures that students truly understand, and they care about each student personally. The relationship between students and professors sometimes feels like friends, making it easier and more comfortable to ask for guidance. This helps many who might feel shy or afraid to seek help from professors.
Alumni: Yolanda Tumilisar
Hello everyone! My name is Yolanda Tumilisar, and I am an alumna of UPH’s Visual Communication Design class of 2020, specializing in Graphic Design. Currently, I am still deciding whether to pursue a career in graphic design focusing on typography or continue my studies abroad.
Before applying to UPH’s Visual Communication Design program, I already had a strong interest in all aspects of design and was familiar with many basic design terms. Despite having this foundational knowledge, I had little professional design experience or skills. During my studies at UPH, we were given numerous opportunities to explore and expand ourselves both academically through classes and non-academically through student organizations, faculty events, and more. These opportunities allowed me to gain new perspectives and prepared me to face future challenges in the professional world.
During my nearly four years of study here, two courses had a significant impact on me: Art History & Civilization and Main Studio 2. Both courses helped me discover my passion for history, research, and typography design. Main Studio 2, in particular, gave us the freedom to explore various media and test our skills in designing based on our chosen topics.
Based on my UPH experience, the courses were instrumental in helping students understand the world of design both conceptually and practically. This was achieved through a robust teaching system that not only expanded on class projects but also provided direct exposure to the work environment through internships in studios, agencies, and other workplaces. This foundation equipped us with essential skills and critical thinking for entering the professional design industry.
I highly recommend UPH as an institution that educates and provides opportunities for students to develop their potential in their own unique ways. UPH also pays attention to minor details such as students’ religious beliefs and soft skills, which support their future endeavors after graduation.
“You will succeed in whatever you choose to do, and light will shine on the road ahead of you”
Alumni: Sharon Hardjono
Hi! My name is Sharon Hardjono, a graduate from DKV UPH, class of 2020 in Graphic Design. Surrounded by like-minded individuals, each with their unique perspectives and creative flair, I became deeply immersed in the artistry of this world. This passion has driven me to pursue freelancing as a graphic designer and illustrator.
Looking back on my journey at DKV UPH, I am filled with gratitude for the lecturers who guided me along the way. They introduced me to the depth and enjoyable experiences of the graphic design world. I’ve been fortunate to experience firsthand the transformative power of their guidance. Through their expertise and encouragement, they have nurtured my intellectual growth and resilience.
As I delve deeper into my design studies, DKV Studio 1 and Graphic Design 1 and 4 stand out as favorites. Studio DKV 1 grants me the liberty to convey messages and explore novel mediums. Moreover, Graphic Design 1 and 4 hold significance for me as each task encourages me to refine my layout skills, crucial in the realm of graphic design.
Having learned to integrate diverse elements and design principles into my work, I’ve come to appreciate the multifaceted nature of graphic design. What excites me most is the endless potential for discovery; each project serves as a journey of exploration, urging me to push creative boundaries. As a graduate of DKV UPH, I am proud to have honed my skills here, and I am enthusiastic about sharing my experiences and memories.
“The more you know, the more you know you don’t know.”
Aristotle
Fidelia Cheryl Antoni Student Project
One of the courses in VCD UPH is Visual Communication Design Studio 2. On this occasion, we would like to discuss the work of Fidelia Cheryl Antoni from this course, which we find interesting.
The illustration is a form of attempt to visualize one of the socio-psychological contemporary issues, namely victim blaming towards women. From the psychological perspective, the phrase “victim blaming” itself may be properly defined as “a social psychological phenomenon in which individuals or groups attempt to cope with the bad things that have happened to others by assigning blame to the victim of the trauma or tragedy” (APA 2018). This phenomenon allows the one who psychologically blames to keep a distance from the victim.
Such psychological distancing provides a justification for the blamer’s inaction, as if he or she was an impartial witness. Simultaneously, such pseudo position fortifies the blamer against the feelings of vulnerability. The act of blaming itself is usually directed towards the considerably weaker social group, in this case: women. Women, who specifically, live under the inclining oppressive social system of patriarchy. Patriarchy itself is a social system which enforces a gender binary that empowers men. A social system which preserves the dynamics of society to always move centripetally towards men as its center.
Fidelia’s illustration is virtually her artistic attempt to capture then portray her concerns regarding the victim blaming phenomenon which grows out of patriarchal social system. The term “portray” refers to the Aristotelian sense of representation which is part of his philosophical account regarding art. Aristotle (384-322 BC), as submitted by Braembussche, contended that an artist portrays reality or nature as it ought to be, rather than as it is (Braembussche 2009, 17). This philosophical view holds that art is the portrayal of what is conceivable. It allows for a very “unrealistic” artistic creations to emerge. In order to do this, Fidelia chose to incorporate metaphor and hyperbole as a strategy to portray the victim blaming issue through visual illustration. Illustration is opted as a visual communication medium considering its ability to convey complex social issues in an engaging and impactful manner, making the message more apprehendable and resonant with a wider audience. Artistically, the visual affluence is enhanced by sprinkling gold-like, bright, and shiny colors. Such decision was made in order to build a more powerful yet optimistic mood. This goal is also inevitably supported by employing center lighting to isolate and emphasize focal points. Objects such as tilted hourglass, teared up paper, and megaphone are treated as visual symbols to signify the reinforcement of women’s empowerment and the fight against victim blaming narrative.
Sources of Reference
APA. “Blaming the Victim.” APA Dictionary of Psychology. April 19, 2018. https://dictionary.apa.org/blaming-the-victim
Braembussche, Antoon Van den. Thinking Art: An Introduction to Philosophy of Art. Berlin: Springer Science + Business Media B.V., 2009.