Hello!
My name is Varnika and I hold a Masters in Industrial Design (2019-2022) from Pratt Institute, where I graduated with distinction, and received the Kostellow Fellowship and Excellence in Academic Achievement awards. As a human, I like to dwell on a world outside my scope of understanding, compassion and visibility. As a designer, I focus on research, create meaningful artistic experiences, and bring those two worlds together in my work.
Prior to Pratt, I graduated with distinction from National Institute of Fashion Technology, India (2013-2017) with a Bachelor of Design in Accessory Design. I landed my first job as Lead Exhibition Designer for Academy Award winning music composer, A.R. Rahman on Le Musk, a multi-sensory VR film. There I collaborated with technology partners such as Intel, Positron VR, The Feelies, IFF, and AromaJoin, to exhibit works at NAB Show 2017, Cannes Film Festival 2019, and Cannes XR 2022.
My work experience ranges from sensory interventions to extended realities, and I aspire to innovate human-centric products through a sustainable and empathetic lens.
Best,
V
BIO
As a human being, I am drawn to the vast world beyond the limits of my understanding, compassion and perception. As a designer, I focus on research, creating impactful and aesthetically rich experiences, and uniting those two worlds in my work. I hold a Master of Industrial Design degree (2019-2022) from Pratt Institute, where I achieved distinction and was honored with the Kostellow Fellowship and the Excellence in Academic Achievement award.
My design journey began with a Bachelor of Design in Accessory Design from the National Institute of Fashion Technology, India (2013-2017). I kickstarted my career as the Lead Experience Designer for Academy Award-winning composer A.R. Rahman on the multi-sensory VR film "Le Musk." I have had the privilege of collaborating with industry leaders such as Intel, Positron VR, The Feelies, IFF, and AromaJoin, to exhibit works at NAB Show 2017, Cannes Film Festival in 2019 and 2022, NYCxDesign Week 2022, Milan Design Week and Salone Del Mobile 2023.
I am currently working as a Senior Designer at ZENDA, where I engage in strategic operations and management consulting for Fortune 100 clients in the finance and consumer services sectors.
VARNIKA
KUNDU
Working at the intersections of art, science, and technology, I am a multi-sensory designer exploring innovative products and experiences through an empathetic lens.
EXPLORE
HIGHLIGHTS
My work experience ranges from sensory interventions to extended realities, aspiring to innovate human-centric products through an empathetic lens.
IDSA Graduate SMA Keynote
March 2022
Portfolio Series
Design for the Senses
Mentorship program
Design for Public Awareness
Off-grid energy harvesting tool for IDPs
Design for Emergency
