Tag: graphic design

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Meet Our Alumni: Fredella Agatha

image of fredella agatha dkv uph 2018

Hello, my name is Fredella Agatha. I graduated with a degree in Visual Communication Design (DKV) from UPH in the class of 2018, specializing in graphic design. Currently, I work as a graphic designer at a marketing agency. In addition to my professional activities, I also nurture my hobby and interest in the field of typography by working as a freelance type designer.

Before enrolling in the Visual Communication Design program at UPH, I had little knowledge about graphic design – terms like balance and harmony in composition were unfamiliar to me. All I knew was that I enjoyed drawing. However, such skills alone were not sufficient to thrive in today’s design industry. Throughout my studies at UPH, I received guidance in both hard and soft skills. Here, we were not only shaped into competent and outstanding designers but also encouraged to have broad knowledge and remain open to learning new things.

Every course in the DKV program at UPH has left a significant impact on me, particularly Basic Typography and Experimental Typography. Basic Typography was the class that awakened my interest in the world of typography, while Experimental Typography inspired me to try creating my own font for the first time. Besides these two classes, one of the most memorable courses was the Main Studio, where I learned the fundamentals of graphic design and design semiotics. We were taught how to create work that is not only visually appealing but also meaningful, capable of effectively communicating messages and relevant to contemporary contexts.

My academic journey at DKV UPH has been an immensely enjoyable experience. Overall, I am highly satisfied with the campus environment and the facilities provided. Students are not only given the opportunity to learn in the classrooms but are also encouraged to participate in various organizations or communities. Additionally, the courses taught are relevant to the professional world, serving as a bridge as I entered the industry. This is undoubtedly a result of the dedication and efforts of the lecturers who wholeheartedly guide their students. I hope that this experience is not only cherished by me but is also shared by many other students out there. I highly recommend DKV UPH to students who are pursuing their passion in the field of design.

Fredella Agatha is an experienced graphic designer with 1.5 years in the industry, currently working remotely for a marketing agency overseas. Her expertise lies in crafting visually compelling designs that resonate with clients. Outside of her professional role, Fredella has a deep passion for typography, particularly in type design, which has become one of her favorite hobbies, offering a creative escape after long workdays.

“When you really want something, the whole universe conspires in helping you to achieve it.”

Paulo Coelho

See Fredella and other of our alumni projects here.

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Publication: Desain Grafis Berkelanjutan

desain grafis berkelanjutan publication dkv uph

“Desain Grafis Berkelanjutan” was a collection of graphic design students’ research and experimentation on the “Design for Environment” course in the 2021/2022 academic year. Alfiansyah Zulkarnain, S.Sn., M.Ds. and Brian Alvin Hananto, S.Sn., M.Ds edited the book.

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E-ISBN: 978-623-7489-69-6

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Odd Semester 2023/2024 Farewell

photo of all that attended the VCD UPH 2023/2024 Odd Semester Farewell

On Wednesday, January 17, 2024, VCD UPH gathered for a modest yet meaningful occasion. The final grades for the Odd Semester of 2023/2024 were disclosed, accompanied by a farewell to the students who successfully completed their Final Projects.

Faculty members took a moment to share well-wishes and words of encouragement for the departing students. The atmosphere was reflective, acknowledging the achievements and challenges that shaped the academic journey. Representatives from the student association expressed congratulations to their peers, recognizing the accomplishment with a nod to the shared experiences.

The atmosphere among the students as they look at the final project grades
Baptista Anton, as one of the academic advisors for the 2019 students, extends congratulations.
David, a cinematography student from 2019, gives a testimony and impressions during his studies at VCD UPH

The day concluded with understated documentation and a casual gathering. Congratulations to the graduating students; be a light and blessing in your own way.

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Meet our Alumni: Elsa Evita Rahman

Hello, I’m Elsa, a 2018 DKV alumna with a concentration in graphic design. I currently work as a Graphic Designer at a FinTech Startup and Creative Agency.

During my time at UPH, I had numerous valuable experiences that significantly contributed to my personal and professional growth. The vibrant atmosphere, camaraderie with fellow students and professors, and active involvement in various organizations exposed me to new perspectives and equipped me with practical skills applicable to the professional world.

My four years of study were a blend of joy, sorrow, and challenges, all of which contributed to shaping my resilience. The supportive environment, both from friends and lecturers, played a crucial role in my development. Special appreciation goes to the instructors, particularly Pak Winoto and Pak Alfian, for their guidance and support in the Graphic Design class, especially in Studios Utama 1 (Main Studio 1).

Studios Utama 1 holds a special place in my heart, despite the initial challenges and tears shed in the graphic design class. The lessons learned during this period have proven to be invaluable in my current workplace. From a novice struggling to grasp design concepts, I evolved into someone who understands and effectively applies design principles. I extend my gratitude to Pak Winoto and Pak Alfian for their instrumental roles in my growth.

The holistic learning approach at UPH, combining theory and practical application, has been immensely beneficial. The system, which encourages student discussions, fosters critical thinking and problem-solving skills—skills that are particularly advantageous in the creative industry. This approach has empowered me to provide innovative solutions with a foundation in critical thinking.

For those considering further studies, I wholeheartedly recommend UPH. The university not only hones knowledge but also offers diverse insights and opportunities. The environment encourages holistic development, preparing students not only academically but also for the dynamic challenges of the professional world. UPH has been instrumental in my journey, and I believe it can offer a similarly enriching experience to aspiring students.

Look to seek knowledge outside the classroom as well as inside it; trust me, all of that knowledge will be helpful in the future.

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Environmental Graphic Design Simulation Project with Scientia Square Park

VCD UPH with the Management of Scientia Square Park

On Tuesday, December 19, 2023, students from the Visual Communication Design (VCD) program at UPH visited Scientia Square Park to present their analysis and proposals regarding environmental graphic design at Scientia Square Park. This project is part of the final examination for the course “Graphic Design in Space,” held in the Odd Semester of 2023/2024. Through this project, which involves industry stakeholders, VCD UPH aims to provide students with real-world experience to enhance their learning.

VCD UPH Students Presenting Their Studies and Designs to the Management of Scientia Square Park
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Jeff Daniel Riyanto

Photo of Jeff Daniel

My name is Jeff Daniel Riyanto. I graduated from Visual Communication Design (DKV) at UPH with a concentration in Graphic Design, belonging to the batch of 2018-2022. Currently, I own a creative design studio that predominantly focuses on social media design. We manage brands and designs related to the food and beverage industry and have expanded into fashion and lifestyle as well.

My experience studying DKV was both exciting and challenging. Meeting new friends with diverse backgrounds and interests in design was a highlight. Among the courses I took at UPH, especially in the Graphic Design department, the most impactful was the main studio course. There, I learned design principles that have proven to be incredibly useful in my professional endeavors.

The rapid development of Industry 5.0 has significantly influenced the creative workforce. During my time at UPH, the learning process evolved to keep pace with the times, providing an added advantage for us as students. I highly recommend UPH because, in my opinion, it offers an environment where you can develop exceptionally well, and the faculty is very supportive of its students. For instance, my classmates and I were required to participate in a typeface design competition, which resulted in us winning second place on an international scale.

Develop success from failures. Discouragement and failure are two of the surest stepping stones to success.

Dale Carnegie
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Meet our Alumni: Nafis Adhikari

Photo of Nafis Adhikari

Senior Designer for CONDE NAST JAPAN( Wired Japan, GQ Japan, Vogue Japan )

Head of Creative / Partner for Open Quarter Tailor

In the earlier years of my academic journey, the field of Design and Visual Communication (DKV) was characterized by a more holistic approach, predating the nuanced subcategories that exist today, such as cinematography and animation. Back then, DKV encompassed a comprehensive spectrum, requiring us to delve into every facet from A to Z.

Despite initially perceiving this broad approach as a challenge, it ultimately became my forte. Acquiring knowledge across the entirety of the discipline, akin to comprehending every graph in a pizza-graph, proved to be an invaluable asset.

Following graduation, I dedicated two years to a small design studio in Jakarta, named Table 6. During my tenure, I collaborated with clients from diverse sectors, including fashion, law, F&B, art exhibitions, etc. This multifaceted experience was a cherished chapter in my professional journey. Subsequently, I resigned from the position, driven by the ambition to establish a prominent presence in Japan—an aspiration I had harbored for years. A year of Japanese language study paved the way for a subsequent year working with a Japanese design studio, culminating in my current role as a Senior Designer/Art Director at Conde Nast Japan. Beyond my responsibilities at Conde Nast, I co-own a small design studio with my wife and a business partner. Additionally, I am a co-owner and head of creative at the Indonesian tailoring brand “Open Quarter Tailor.”

Reflecting on my university years at UPH, I hold fond memories of both enduring friendships and the privilege of learning from some of the industry’s brightest minds. UPH instilled in us the importance of critical thinking, transcending mere technical proficiency. This emphasis on critical thinking emerged as a cornerstone of our industry strength. While every subject at UPH was enjoyable, I particularly relished the “DKV Subject,” where we undertook the rebranding of selected companies—a task that resonated with my specialization in branding.

The knowledge and skills cultivated during my time at UPH have significantly contributed not only to my professional journey but also to my personal development. I unequivocally recommend UPH to prospective students, as my experience there was truly transformative and life-changing.

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Alumni: Vanessa Leoni

Photo of Vanessa Leoni. Photo Provided by Vanessa.

Hello, let me introduce myself. I’m Vanessa Leoni, an alumna of the 2019 class of DKV UPH, specializing in Graphic Design. Currently, I work as a Packaging Designer at a company in the FMCG industry.

During my time at UPH, I felt my design skills develop significantly, thanks to the guidance of the DKV UPH professors who always supported me during the learning process. When I initially joined DKV, I faced some challenges in adapting to the assigned tasks, but over time, I became more accustomed to it and learned to manage my time effectively. As the semesters progressed, I realized that the course material started with fundamental concepts and gradually became more complex, resembling real-world projects in the industry.

One of the courses that had a significant impact on me was the main studio 3. During a full semester, DKV students collaborated with students from the food technology program to create innovative product packaging. The design process started with product analysis, selecting the appropriate packaging materials, designing brand identities, creating packaging designs, and developing social media and e-commerce product sales designs. Throughout this course, I learned numerous new aspects, such as how to create packaging designs that not only prioritize aesthetics but are also producible and represent the concept of the product being sold.

My education definitely helped me in the industry. Because the steps taken to complete assignments provide a real-world glimpse of what you’ll do in the industry. With each passing semester, projects were not only individually resolved but also involved external parties to provide design objectives, test the effectiveness of the design, and evaluate it.

Studying at DKV UPH is not limited to classroom learning. There are many design-related activities outside of class that can be participated in. For example, joining the “BEDA’KAN” (Redesigning Packaging) initiative where students redesign packaging for selected MSMEs. This not only adds to your experience but also teaches students how to communicate directly with MSMEs, known as clients in the professional world. Furthermore, DKV UPH maintains high standards, allowing students to produce high-quality work.

There’s no such thing as limitations in design; that’s why you should unleash all your ideas and continue creating work that can be seen by many people!

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Typolog 2023 Webinar 3 Recap

On Friday, October 20, 2023, the Graphic Design specialization at UPH conducted the Typolog 3 Webinar with an alumni speaker from VCD UPH itself, Fredella Agatha. In this event, Fredella shared her experience in designing the ‘Pantjoran’ lettering as her final project. Fredella explained the process and also shared tips on lettering design with all the webinar participants.

Fredella Agatha, The Speaker for the Webinar, and Yolanda Tumilisar, The Moderator for the Webinar

In addition to Fredella’s sharing session, the Typolog 3 Webinar also featured the announcement of the winners of the Typolog 2023 competition. The Typolog 2023 competition challenged participants to create designs in the Tote Bag format, which would later be produced as merchandise by VCD UPH. The grand winner of the Typolog 2023 competition was Tiara Kiatama, a student of VCD UPH from the 2022 batch. Meanwhile, the favorite winner of the Typolog 2023 competition was Joshlyn Tee from UPH College.

“Berbeda-beda Tetapi Tetap Satu” by Tiara Kiatama

This work emerged from the exploration of the definition of “Nusantara,” which is a synonym for describing the unity of the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia introduced by Ki Hajar Dewantara in 1950. Nusantara refers to the unity of several islands, which I combined with Indonesia’s official motto, “Bhineka Tunggal Ika,” which means “Diverse But One.” The diversity of Indonesia, comprising various provinces, ethnicities, cultures, and religions, is the uniqueness of the Indonesian nation itself.

This concept resulted in this work, a collection of diverse typefaces, yet still displaying the number one. Diversity was also achieved through the use of different colors, but there was still a unifying element, including its placement within a text “box.”

This is my interpretation of the theme ‘Nusantara’ provided.

“The title of this work is Nusantara. This typographic work is inspired by the cultural diversity of Indonesia and draws inspiration from the art of wayang puppetry. Each letter in the word ‘Nusantara’ is inspired by the different shapes and styles of wayang characters. I attempted to incorporate the unique features and characteristics of various wayang characters into each letter. I also used wayang puppet heads in some of the letters. I played with the thin and thick aspects of the wayang figures and used them in letter composition to create an engaging design.

I created each letter’s sketch individually and drew inspiration from the trendy ‘molten chrome typography’ and sharp typography seen on various social media platforms because I believed this style was suitable for the wayang aesthetics. In the modern world, we often get caught up in new trends and things happening around us, and we tend to forget our rich and diverse culture. So, I incorporated trendy typography styles like combining different font styles into one text and experimenting with the typography composition to make Indonesian culture modern and trendy.”


Thank you to all participants, organizers, and everyone who participated during the Typolog 2023 event. Hopefully, we can meet again in Typolog or other activities.

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Alumni: Glory Josephine Immanuela

Photo of Glory Josephine Immanuela. Photo Provided by Glory Josephine Immanuela.

Hi, let me introduce myself. My name is Glory Josephine Immanuela, but I’m commonly called Goi. I’m an alumna of DKV UPH, specializing in Graphic Design, from the class of 2016. Up to this day, I’m working on a business that my friend and I founded back in 2018 during our time at university, which is a custom artwear venture called Rupa Cerita (located in Bogor).

My current opportunities and abilities are closely tied to the 3.5 years of education I received at DKV UPH. I’ve always considered my time in college as an incredible blessing from God because the knowledge, activities, opportunities, and campus facilities equipped me from various aspects. This included a highly comprehensive design discipline, knowledgeable professors, a library with quality reference books, insights into job opportunities for designers in the current design industry (both nationally and internationally), the opening of connections and job prospects, well-equipped design labs and computers, and simulations of the role of design within the broader community.

While nearly all the courses I took were memorable, and I still recall the ups and downs, there’s one moment in the Experimental Typography course that I’ll never forget. During my studies, I went through an identity crisis, finding it challenging to follow and adapt to the main task of graphic designers, which is to systematically, structurally, and measurably address communication problems with visuals. Perhaps my visual style was more dynamic, and not all creative briefs suited my approach. This created the impression that I might never meet the industry’s needs, and I felt that the industry would forever be boring and stressful. However, in the Experimental Typography class, the emphasis was on the level of exploration of typography, layout, and animation. And at one point, when the Head of the Department, Mr. Alfiansyah Zulkarnain, visited the class, he uttered a simple sentence, “Wow, this font is so Goi.” That’s when I felt understood and accepted. Finally, my self-confidence began to grow, allowing me to explore my own design character.

I’m grateful for the knowledge of Graphic Design that I gained at DKV UPH. It not only influenced my visual work but also my everyday life and work. Project and time management skills were greatly honed when working in teams, preparing me to deal with various individuals in the industry.

I will always recommend DKV UPH to young creatives who want to study design because at DKV UPH, you can learn from highly experienced professors who are still active in the design industry. The supportive facilities and environment are among the key factors in the development of students.

“For me, success isn’t about meeting the standards the world sets, but about developing one’s talents and fulfilling one’s own God-given calling to the best of one’s ability. That alone is sufficient.”