de-lite: Journal of Visual Communication Design Vol. 3 No. 2

cover image for de-lite: Journal of Visual Communication Design Vol.3 No. 2

VCD UPH has just published the December 2023 edition of de-lite: Journal of Visual Communication Design Study & Practice. In this edition, there are seven articles authored by individuals from Universitas Pelita Harapan, Universitas Trisakti, Universitas Bunda Mulia, Universitas Mercu Buana, and Universitas Multimedia Nusantara. Three of the publications are from Universitas Pelita Harapan: “Identifikasi Permasalahan Desain Identitas Visual Restoran Warung Rawit,” “Lenyapnya Otentisitas Seniman Sebagai Konsekuensi Pemberlakuan Seni Sebagai Komoditas dari Perjalanan Artistik Thomas Gainsborough,” and “Pengaruh Pengalaman Praktik Magang Terhadap Kesiapan Bekerja (Studi Empiris: Mahasiswa Desain Komunikasi Visual Universitas Pelita Harapan).”

You can read de-lite here.

PDKT: Perkumpulan Desainer Kurang Tidur


On Friday, January 19, 2024, the Visual Communication Design student association at UPH organized a camaraderie night titled “PDKT: Perkumpulan Desainer Kurang Tidur” (Designers’ Association for the Sleep-Deprived). This camaraderie event invited students from the 2022 and 2023 batches to come together and foster connections. During the event, students were divided into groups where they competed and hunted for coins to win the evening’s competitions. After a long series of games, the students shared their impressions of the activities. The event then continued with a friendly gathering before the students headed home.

Students are making their team’s flag
One of the games that the students played
One of the games that the students played
photo of the winning team with the student association president

See the Instagram Highlights here.

Meet our Alumni: Jefferson Kurnia

Jefferson Kurnia from VCD UPH 2015

Hi, my name is Jefferson Kurnia, an alumnus of DKV UPH from 2015 with a major in Animation. Currently, I work as a 3D Artist for JJ Group. Before joining JJ Group, I contributed to several projects both locally and internationally, such as the Tiger Bayu series, Auroria World, Mini Beats Power Rocker Movie, and the InAPP series.

I had a wonderful time studying at DKV UPH, where I acquired essential animation skills before venturing into the animation industry. The lecturers at UPH were very supportive, providing us with extra time to delve deeper into the professional aspects of 3D animation. One class that stood out for me was when we created our first 3D animation in groups. We spent a night at the UPH animation lab, overcoming challenges and learning the process of making a 3D short animation. Fortunately, our friends were supportive, helping us navigate through the challenges together.

I highly recommend UPH as an excellent institution for studying DKV Animation. They offer opportunities for students to explore and showcase their capabilities, participating in art competitions, exhibitions, and even presenting their works in cinemas.

Never doubt your passion as a career; your passion is an investment in your professional journey. This quote motivates me to continually learn and thrive in the animation industry.

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.

UPH AICON 2023 CATALOGUE

UPH AICON 2023 dkv uph

We had an amazing time last year at UPH AICON (Animation Convention) 2023. Both the exhibition and the cosplay competition received widespread acclaim and positive reviews. Get the full scoop on the event here.

Now, we’re excited to share the event’s catalogue with you. Explore the showcased works and relive all the wonderful moments from UPH AICON 2023. Looking forward to seeing you again this year!

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.

UPH Unggul

Dear UPH Community, 

As announced before, by the grace of our blessed Triune God, UPH has achieved EXCELLENT (“UNGGUL”) accreditation in December 2023. This is really a great milestone and something to be thankful for in the history of our beloved Christ-centered university. So, in our first Wednesday Chapel this year, 10 January 2024, there will be a public announcement and submission of Decision Letter (SK) UPH Unggul, and concluded with prayer of thanksgiving. 

Because of this, just for this week, 10 January 2024, we will begin our Wednesday chapel, at 07.00 am, SHARP. So, please attend the chapel on time.

Thank you for your kind attention to this announcement. 

Sincerely,

UPH Rectorate

VCD UPH Student Exchange Orientation

On Monday, January 8, 2024, an online orientation for VCD UPH was conducted for exchange students from Multimedia Nusantara University. In this orientation, 10 UMN students were welcomed by the Dean of the Faculty of Design and the Head of the Visual Communication Design Program at Pelita Harapan University. In addition to introducing VCD UPH, the meeting explained the learning processes that will take place at UPH. May the exchange program run smoothly this semester. Happy learning.

Priscilla Agatha

My name is Priscilla Agatha, and I studied Animation at DKV UPH from 2015 to 2019. Currently, I work as an illustrator with a focus on cute characters. My clients include small businesses, companies, and individuals for personal commissions. In my day-to-day routine, I engage in illustration work, communicate with clients, and, when there is free time, practice my craft!

My time at DKV UPH was a valuable experience. My classmates were supportive, and the lecturers consistently pushed us to improve. Reflecting on my studies, the first year was particularly enlightening in terms of design. The class taught by Pak Winoto Usman engaged me in the study, emphasizing that the most aesthetically pleasing pictures can be created not just from artistic inspiration but through concept and methodology.

Upon entering the Animation major, I discovered my interest in illustration, realizing there was much more to it than just creating visually appealing images. After graduating, refining my identity as an artist became a continuous process. Through practice and diverse experiences, I developed a consistent visual art style. Looking back, I credit this growth to the foundation laid during my studies at DKV UPH.

I hope that the education provided at DKV UPH has continued to evolve. I recommend aspiring artists and designers to consider studying there, as the program offers a well-rounded education balancing theory and practice. The emphasis on critical thinking equips artists and designers to tackle visual problems, regardless of their complexity.

Like many artists, my biggest challenge has been fear, whether it’s fear of failure or ridicule. To those facing similar challenges, I offer this advice: embrace your fear, recognizing it as the initial step in your artistic journey. After all, what’s one step compared to the hundreds of positive steps you’ll take?

Junissa Bianda


My name is Junissa Bianda H, and I am an illustrator specializing in children’s books and goods. I attended UPH from 2009 to 2013, majoring in DKV. My time at UPH was truly eye-opening, unlocking numerous skills and wisdom during my classes.

Among the subjects, I particularly enjoyed the Digital Art class, where I learned the basic principles of Photoshop. This marked a breakthrough in my artistic journey as it was my first introduction to Photoshop. Previously, I had primarily used traditional mediums for my art, but now I consistently incorporate Photoshop into my projects. In the Illustration class, I explored the vast styles of illustration and learned to stylize humans and objects. I also appreciated experimenting with mixing traditional media, producing different and unique textures for my work.

Inspired by the classes at UPH, I decided to delve deeper into illustration by pursuing a master’s degree at the Academy of Art University in San Francisco.

Currently, I am represented by a literary agency based in NYC, UK, and Singapore. Throughout my career, my clients have mainly been publishers, including Penguin Random House, Nosycrow, Usborne, Hallmark, Sourcebooks, Scholastic, Hachette, Cottage Door Press, Unilever, Albert Whitman & Co, among others.

One of my notable illustrated books, titled “Nabil Steals a Penguin,” was voted “Picture Book of the Month” by The Guardian and The Bookseller. It was also mentioned in the Observer as the picture book to look out for.

I had the privilege of creating branding for IHC Pertamedika’s children’s hospital in Makassar, designing two new mascots, and creating a mural for its 20m corridor and rooms.

In 2021, I debuted my own illustrated and written book series, “Kareem and Khaleel,” published by Lentera Hati. The series, consisting of five books, has sold over 20,000 copies worldwide. The IP is expanding into other media, including small merchandise and goods. The series was nominated as the bestseller in the children’s book category in BBW and Gramedia.

All these projects were made easier by the foundation laid during my time at UPH, and I highly recommend it to art students.

Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once we grow up.

Pablo Picasso