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Alumni: Carren Miquella

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!

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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.

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Alumni: Angelina Kalinda

Angeline 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.

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Alumni: Yolanda Tumilisar

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”

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Alumni: Sharon Hardjono

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
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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.

Design by Fidelia Cherly Antoni
Design by Fidelia Cherly Antoni
Design by Fidelia Cherly Antoni

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.

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Typolog 2024 Workshop

On Saturday, June 15, 2024, the Graphic Design concentration of VCD UPH held Typolog 2024. This event is part of a series of activities organized at Carstenz Mall, Gading Serpong, as part of Typolog 2024.

The workshop at Typolog 2024 focused on calligraphy and was led by VCD UPH alumnus Nikko Purnama Lukman. Nikko has previously conducted several sessions in Typolog’s webinars and online workshops in past years.

Nikko Purnama Lukman at Typolog 2024

The calligraphy workshop was well received by both the organizers and the participants. Nikko’s relaxed approach to teaching calligraphy provided an insightful introduction to the basics and the enjoyment of calligraphy as a visualization technique useful for designers.

Nikko and the Participants of the Workshop

Thank you, Nikko, for sharing your time and expertise at Typolog 2024.

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Gallery Walk Final Project

On Monday, June 3, 2024, the Visual Communication Design (VCD) department at Universitas Pelita Harapan (UPH) held a Gallery Walk at the Pelita Gallery for final project students from the even semester of the 2023/2024 academic year. The event was inaugurated by the Dean of the Faculty of Design and the Head of the VCD department.

During the event, several final project students from each concentration within VCD UPH presented their works to first-year students, aiming to familiarize them with the various concentrations available. This activity was designed to give first-year students a concrete understanding of what they will experience in their chosen concentrations and to foster connections among VCD UPH students across different year groups.

Cinematography Students Presenting Di Balik Mata Final Project
Fay Arietta Yapputri, from the Illustration Concentration, Presenting at the Gallery Walk
Participants of the Final Project Gallery Walk
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See June 2024

This May marks the transition period between the even semester and the summer semester at Universitas Pelita Harapan.

During this transition, several activities take place, such as the final examinations for students who participated in the final project in the even semester of 2023/2024, the graduation ceremony for students who completed their studies in the odd semester of 2023/2024, and several other activities.

On this occasion, we would also like to inform you about Elisabeth Katie Soleman’s final project (class of 2019), which has been selected for the Bali International Film Festival (BIFF) 2024. Her work will be screened at the festival from June 1-7, 2024.

We hope that during this transition period, there will still be many positive things to learn.

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Alumni: Juventia Kalonica

Juventia Kalonica

My full name is Juventia Kalonica, but most people call me Juju. Recently, I’ve added a new name for myself—Jun. So whether it’s Juju or Jun, feel free to call me either! I started as an Animation student back in 2017, but as time passed, I found myself gravitating towards illustration.

Deciding to pursue illustration wasn’t without its doubts. I often questioned my choice, wondering if I regretted not sticking with animation after investing time and money into it. But truth be told, I don’t regret my time in animation at all. I’m grateful for the experiences and lessons it brought me. However, as life unfolded, especially after dealing with the challenges of COVID, I realized that my true passion lies in illustration. Nevertheless, my love for animation remains, and if given the chance, I’d dive back into learning it again!

Besides honing my skills, what truly enriched my journey were the friendships I made along the way. Back when my skills were far from where they are now, my friends provided endless support and guidance.

The early years were tough. I was clueless about design, and the assignments seemed impossibly difficult. There were tears, sleepless nights, and moments of self-doubt, especially when I saw my grades. But God and my friends were my rock. Their unwavering support reignited my passion for art. The animation classes were a blast too, thanks to our kind and patient lecturer, Pak Naldo, who made the learning process enjoyable.

One class that stands out the most is concept art. Creating characters based on random themes challenged me in ways I never imagined. Laughing at my own lackluster drawings, I realized how much I had to learn. But Pak Naldo and my friends never judged me; instead, they helped me improve. It was a truly enjoyable experience, one I’d gladly relive if given the chance.

The skills I acquired have proven invaluable in my current role as an illustrator at Giftinside. Every illustration demands meticulous attention to detail, a skill I learned through countless hours of practice. Understanding proportions and human anatomy has also been crucial.

I wholeheartedly recommend UPH to anyone interested in animation. Their diverse range of classes and openness to different styles—whether it’s Western cartoons or anime—make it an ideal learning environment.

Wishing everyone the best of luck!