A maximalist daydream, visual artist and graphic designer Mehek Malhotra's work stands as a beacon of creativity, infusing warmth and personality into every design. With a distinct style that encompasses vibrant colors, cultural motifs, whimsical shapes, and vivid patterns, her work effortlessly transports viewers into a world of joy and wonder. As the founder of the design studio 'Giggling Monkey,' Mehek and her team strive to create more than just design; they craft enchanting tales that intertwine with a brand's ethos, leaving a lasting impact on audiences.
At Giggling Monkey, the philosophy is to infuse every project with stories of heritage, passion, and innovation. Their creative process goes beyond aesthetics, delving deep into the essence of the product to create a seamless integration of art and brand identity. Mehek believes that each design should have a personality of its own, captivating the audience and establishing an emotional connection.
Diversity is a hallmark of Mehek's work. She artist skillfully translates her cultural connection into her artwork, creating a captivating fusion of tradition and contemporary design. From the kaleidoscope of colors during the Holi festival to the intricate patterns adorning decorated trucks, Mehek's work reflects the profound influence of India's vibrant visual culture. One of the intriguing influences on Mehek's artistic journey comes from an unexpected source—the design of the ubiquitous one rupee matchboxes featuring religious figures, historical icons, Bollywood stars, foreign brands, cartoon characters, everyday objects, and exotic animals.
Pop culture references are another key element in Mehek's design language. This infusion of maximalism and Pop art elevates her work, making it relevant while also recontextualizing popular imagery. Her work uses visual puns, exaggerated imagery, and juxtapositions to create a sense of visual impact and engage the viewer on multiple levels. The thematic characteristics of Pop art which incorporate elements of irony, humor, and satire to comment on social and cultural phenomena also subtly find their way into Mehek's designs.
Having started a design studio at 19, finding her way to her own style through countless mentors, guides, friends and a lot of trial and error, Mehek has established herself as an influential figure in the industry. Her understanding of creativity and design as an inseparable part of one's personality and aspirations has enriched her work with a wholesomeness and emotional dynamism that travels sensorily to the viewer. Translating feelings into the visual plane and vice-versa is what sets her apart in India's competitive design landscape.
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