123. The Power of Creative Community

This is How We Create

123. The Power of Creative Community - Ankita Das

0:00

-41:45

123. The Power of Creative Community - Ankita Das

Pushing the boundaries of photography and design

Martine Severin

Mar 26, 2025

Transcript

Hey there, hey!

What happens when a medical student abandons her stethoscope for a camera, moves to a foreign country where she knows no one, and transforms an abandoned garage into a thriving art collective?

In this episode of This is How We Create, we explore the multifaceted world of communication designer and photographer Ankita Das, whose work transcends traditional medium boundaries to create powerful narratives around identity, health, and community.

Ankita shares how being the daughter of academics (a mathematician mother and surgeon father) initially set her on a medical path before discovering her artistic talents. She discusses her unique professional identity, describing herself as "juggling between a designer who photographs and a photographer who designs."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Ankita Das and Her Creative Journey

02:56 The Duality of Identity in Creativity

05:56 Artistic Influences from Childhood

09:07 Exploring Dating Culture Through Art

11:55 The Intersection of Performance and Design

15:14 Navigating PCOS Through Artistic Expression

18:02 Creating Community Through Espace Tricote

21:01 Understanding Space and Communication Design

24:05 Collective Chimera: Building a Supportive Community

27:01 Funding and Sustainability of Artistic Spaces

29:55 The Impact of Community on Creativity

32:52 Sharing Work Beyond the Community

36:05 Balancing Work and Personal Life

38:57 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Episode Highlights

Early exposure to art can have a significant impact on a person's creative journey.
The integration of photography and design.
Performance can play a role in artistic expression and engaging with an audience.
Art can be a powerful tool for raising awareness