‘Studying design has completely transformed the way I see the world around me’

Meet Mahima Boura, a passionate design student from Apeejay Institute of Design, whose creative journey began with a childhood love for drawing and painting. For Mahima, art has always been more than a hobby — it’s her language of emotion and imagination. Driven by a desire for independence and innovation, she dreams of building her own legacy in the design world. Reflecting on her foundation year, Mahima shares how it has been a transformative experience — from mastering design principles and human anatomy to experimenting with sustainable art using waste materials. Her journey reaffirms that creativity truly knows no boundaries. Read edited excerpts of her interview here:

 The foundation programme covers diverse areas of design — from sketching and materials to digital tools. Which aspect do you enjoy the most, and why?

The aspect I enjoy the most in the foundation programme is our workshop sessions. They open endless possibilities for creativity and material exploration. I absolutely love experimenting with different mediums — from crafting 3D reliefs to building newspaper sculptures and even carving intricate forms on thermocol. One of the most fascinating realizations for me was discovering how something as ordinary as a corrugated sheet can be transformed into a striking decorative element within an art piece. Each workshop feels like a new adventure — playful, challenging, and deeply inspiring. I believe every student, including me, looks forward to these sessions the most, as they truly ignite our imagination and bring our ideas to life.

Can you share a memorable classroom project or assignment that challenged your creativity or taught you something new?

Yes, the most challenging assignment for me so far was when we had to create a pattern using thermocol. It was quite difficult because thermocol is a very fragile material — it can break easily even with a small amount of pressure. Carving clean lines, shaping the corners precisely, and adding depth to the pattern required a lot of patience and steady hands. At first, it felt frustrating, but gradually I learned how to handle the material delicately and use it to my advantage. Through this project, I realized how even a simple material like thermocol can be transformed into a decorative and aesthetically appealing design element with the right technique and creativity. It truly pushed me to refine my craftsmanship and attention to detail.

How has studying design changed the way you observe or interpret things around you in daily life?

Studying design has completely transformed the way I see the world around me. Earlier, I used to look at things just as they were, but now I tend to observe every detail — the colours, forms, textures, and balance that exist in everyday life. Whether it’s the layout of a poster on the street, the packaging of a product, or even the way shadows fall on a wall, I find design everywhere. It has made me more curious and mindful; I’ve learned that everything we see carries a purpose and a sense of design behind it. This new perspective has not only sharpened my observation skills but also taught me to find beauty and meaning in ordinary things.

Design often involves teamwork and critique sessions. How do you handle feedback and collaborate with peers during projects?

I believe feedback is one of the most important parts of the design process. During critique sessions, I try to listen openly and understand different perspectives, because every opinion helps me see my work from a new angle. Instead of taking feedback personally, I take it as an opportunity to refine and improve my ideas. When working in a team, I always make sure that everyone’s voice is heard and that we value each other’s creativity. I enjoy brainstorming together, dividing tasks based on strengths, and helping teammates whenever needed. Collaborating with peers has taught me that design isn’t just about individual creativity — it’s about collective imagination and turning ideas into something meaningful together.

Looking ahead, what area of design would you like to specialise in after your foundation year, and what excites you most about building a career in this field?

After my foundation year, I would like to specialise in Graphic Design. What excites me the most about this field is its power to communicate emotions, ideas, and stories through visuals? I love how a single design — whether it’s a poster, a logo, or an illustration — can inspire people, change perceptions, and even influence culture.

Graphic design beautifully combines creativity and purpose, and that balance truly inspires me. I want to create designs that not only look aesthetically pleasing but also carry meaning and connect with people on a deeper level. The idea of turning imagination into something impactful and real is what drives my passion to build a long-term career in this field.

What made you choose Apeejay Institute of Design? How are the teachers shaping your skills?

I chose Apeejay Institute of Design because of its strong reputation, creative environment, and the way it encourages students to think beyond boundaries. I had heard that this institute focuses not only on technical skills but also on developing imagination, individuality, and confidence — and I’ve truly experienced that.

The teachers here play a huge role in shaping our journey. They don’t just teach us; they guide, inspire, and challenge us to think differently. Their feedback and constant motivation have helped me polish my skills, understand design more deeply, and explore my own creative identity. Learning under such mentors makes me feel more confident about my future in design.