For Rishab Soni, design isn't just a profession, it's a passport to a world of creative exploration. From his early days honing his skills in New Zealand to his current role in London, Rishab has embraced the transformative power of diverse experiences. Working across continents with clients and colleagues from various backgrounds has instilled in him a unique design approach that celebrates both cultural nuances and universal appeal.
Can you share how your career started in London and if you have professional experience in India? How have these diverse experiences influenced your creative journey?
My family moved to New Zealand when I was just ten years old, therefore, I did not gain any professional experience while living in India. However, I am keen to explore the possibilities of working there in the future. Throughout my career, I have worked with production studios in different countries such as New Zealand, Qatar, America, and currently in London. I have been living in London for the past three years, and due to my extensive network of colleagues and clients from different countries, I was able to start my career here smoothly. The countries I have had the opportunity to work in have influenced my design style, not only because of the cultural knowledge I have gained but also because of the cultural differences I have had to adapt to. Most importantly, it was the people I worked with who had a significant impact on my creative journey. Learning from masters of their craft in different parts of the world has been an exceptional experience.
Can you outline your educational background and pivotal moments that have influenced your creative approach and career trajectory?
My educational journey includes a Bachelor's in Graphic Design from the Auckland University of Technology, which helped refine my design skills and taste. However, a pivotal moment came when I moved to Qatar in 2013 after graduation. Being thrust into the world of big-budget commercials for multinational organizations challenged my creativity and shattered any illusions of constant creative satisfaction. This experience taught me the importance of personal projects for creative freedom and growth.
Your career spans over a decade, during which you've worked with various international clients and been involved in diverse creative roles. Could you share some insights into how your journey has shaped your approach to creativity?
Working with professionals from diverse cultural backgrounds has been instrumental in shaping my creative approach. Additionally, overcoming imposter syndrome and detaching ego from my work have allowed me to view my creations objectively.
What's been your most memorable career project? What challenges did you face, and why was it rewarding?
One of my most memorable projects was when I was hired as an art director for the opening title sequence of a crime drama series. It was a dream project and my first appointment as an art director. The biggest challenge for me was overcoming imposter syndrome and accepting this opportunity as part of my expertise. As an art director, I enjoyed the freedom of expressing my ideas and collaborating with others to bring them to life. This experience was both liberating and rewarding.
How do you prioritise personal projects alongside client work, and what role do self-initiated projects play in your creative process?
I have found that personal projects play a significant role in my creative exploration, whether it be trying out new software or experimenting with a new 3D renderer. Creating things that clients may not be interested in is very self-satisfying, and a lot of my portfolio is made up of personal projects. This is because I want future clients to see the kind of work I'm passionate about. Although I would like to have a better balance between personal and client work, it's currently a bit disorganized. After work, I usually spend 2-3 hours working on an ongoing personal project. I like to have at least two personal projects that I can switch between, which helps me stay fresh and engaged.
Your portfolio showcases a wide range of creative roles, from motion designer to art director. How do you approach maintaining a cohesive artistic vision across different projects while still embracing the unique requirements of each role?
I adapt to the needs of each project, like a chameleon. My focus is on realising the core motive of the piece, setting aside personal creative preferences to meet client needs.
What future trends do you anticipate shaping design and creativity, considering technological advancements and evolving consumer behaviours?
The rapid advancements in VR and AR technologies like Meta Quest and Apple Vision signal a major disruption on the horizon for our industry. While these tools are still in their early stages, they offer a glimpse into a future where information and entertainment are consumed in completely new ways. This shift demands a fundamental change in how we design for a seamlessly integrated world. The current methods clients rely on to promote their products will likely become obsolete, requiring us to develop entirely new strategies.
What advice would you offer to aspiring creatives looking to diversify their skill sets and take on a similarly versatile approach to their careers?
Invest time in personal projects. They offer the perfect opportunity to develop new skills, which, with practice, will integrate seamlessly into your workflow.
Finally, what advice would you give to emerging creatives who aspire to make a significant impact in the industry?
It's a challenge for me to answer since I'm still on that journey myself. Keep honing your craft, and practicing, and you'll at least satisfy the inner drive that led you on this creative path.
