Young Guns 21: Brindha Kumar
By Alixandra Rutnik and Brett McKenzie on Nov 01, 2023
Get to know the phenomenal class of Young Guns 21
After 85 incredible finalists and intense deliberation, the Young Guns jury has narrowed it down to the 29 winners that make up the class of Young Guns 21. An astounding collection of animators, illustrators, film directors, typographers (a few Ascenders 2023 winners as well!), graphic designers, and photographers make up YG21.
Every year we interview the Young Guns winners to get to know them better as artists and people. And as always, we are welcoming another class of outstanding individuals into the highly coveted Young Guns community.
Now that you know the YG21 winners better, we hope you’ll join us in celebrating them in person at NYC’s Sony Hall on Wednesday, November 15, 2023, at 6:30 PM. See you in two weeks and get ready to party!
BRINDHA KUMAR
ILLUSTRATOR
Based:
London, United Kingdom
Hometown:
Subang Jaya, Malaysia
When did you first learn about Young Guns?
I've seen artists I admire and follow participating in Young Guns, which motivated me to enter as well! I believe it's an incredible platform that can open up new doors for potential opportunities.
How did you end up in the creative field anyways?
I've had a deep passion for drawing since my early childhood. It seemed to come naturally to me! While pursuing my degree in graphic design, I noticed that I consistently leaned towards an illustrative approach in all my projects. It was then that I realised my calling as an illustrator.
Congrats on the W! How do you feel you've matured as an artist since the last time you entered?
This was my final opportunity to participate, so I was determined to take a shot at it! I did submit an entry last year, but I didn't feel that my portfolio was as strong as it is today. The difference this time is that I had the opportunity to work on more incredible projects that I believe truly represent me and my body of work.
You only get to submit six projects that embody you and your talent. The best of the very best. So, how did you decide which pieces were good enough to make the cut?
I selected the projects I take pride in, both for successfully meeting the brief and executing them, all while thoroughly enjoying the creative process.
What was your reaction when you discovered that you won?
I was absolutely ecstatic! Discovering I had won was an incredible moment, especially considering it was my final opportunity to enter. I remember the moment it happened - I was sitting at my desk with a friend beside me, and we both couldn't contain our excitement, jumping around in joy for a solid five minutes!
In what ways does your hometown inspire your creativity as an artist? And what about your current city?
My hometown, Malaysia, serves as a huge inspiration for my creative work. Hailing from a nation rich in diverse cultures, my work style has been profoundly inspired by this melting pot of influences. Additionally, the unwavering love and support from my mom has been a constant source of motivation. Now, residing in London, a city pulsating with vibrancy and creativity in every nook and cranny, I find myself immersed in an endless pool of inspiration wherever I turn.
Name a creative and professional dream project that you have yet to fulfill — maybe Young Guns will propel you in that direction!
I would love to explore new artistic mediums, such as working on an installation, or seeing my work in a music festival branding– that would be quite exciting!
"I would love to explore new artistic mediums, such as working on an installation, or seeing my work in a music festival branding– that would be quite exciting!"
This is YG21, but what do you imagine you’ll be up to when YG31 rolls around in 2033?
I would like to continue my journey in illustration, doing what I'm passionate about and what truly brings me joy well into the future!
Will we see you at the YG21 party in NYC in November?
Hopefully!
Come party with us and celebrate all the Young Guns 21 winners on Wednesday, November 15 at Sony Hall! See you at 6:30 PM in NYC!
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