Hi, I am Rabi,
The Design Gundey.
JOURNEY
From farmer to graphics designer.
I am Rabiul Islam, also known as Rabi, originating from the region associated with the Battle of Plassey, born into a family of farmers. My aspiration to visit Kolkata was fulfilled when I successfully passed the entrance exam for the Department of Philosophy at the erstwhile Presidency University. Immersing myself in the vibrant community of progressive students in Kolkata, I initially delved into the world of art, which I persistently argue is synonymous with the world of design.
Discovering my newfound ability to create handmade posters that not only addressed topics like Tahrir to Shahbagh but also featured Dokra figurines or Bengali calligraphy for International Mother Tongue Day, I witnessed the evolution of my artistic expression.
As the world around me changed, I seamlessly transitioned from traditional art paper to the digital realm. The possibilities in the digital medium opened my eyes, and the appreciation received from fellow enthusiasts convinced me that this was destined to be my profession.
Subsequently, I engaged in freelance projects while still at university and gradually worked my way to a position as a graphic designer at Grasshopper Media in New Delhi after graduation. Seeking further education, I pursued a post-graduation in Design at the Srishti Institute of Art, Design & Technology.
PROFESSIONAL JOURNEY
Organisations & Brands
Over the past 7-8 years in my professional journey, spanning roles in advertising agencies, tech firms, AI startups, consultancy firms, and NGOs, I've had the privilege of contributing to prestigious brands. This experience not only brought me immense joy in my work but also provided valuable learning opportunities.
aicrowd.com
AIcrowd
SEP.2020 > AUG.2022
In/with Aicrowd, I have worked with so many prestigious Artificial Inteligence and Tech Brands like: OpenAI, Facebook AI, Sony, Amazon, Firmenich
Additionally, I worked with various research institutions such as ADDI, EPFL, and Carnegie Mellon University etc.
Grasshopper
JUN.2017 > AUG.2018
DD News, Duranta TV, IVS School of Design, Room to Read, Krowten, Gulshan, Unity One
kreo.in
KREO
JAN.2020 > JUNE.2020
Here I have worked with few prestigious brands like : AIR INDIA, Titan, BOSCH-India, Reliance, Embassy Office Parks
Be Bold
JAN.2019 > DEC.2020
Tata Motors, NVG 2.0, Mantri Mall, Namma Bengaluru, Manthan, Office Pulse etc.
Contracts
2015 > NOW
I have directly work for few brands/organisations like, Government of Jharkhand, Bihar State Electricity Board, Sewa Bharat, Bihar Tourism, Ecological Foundation, Goego Ev, Vedanta, Rajkamal Prakashan, Urdu Bazar Publilcation, Followup Stories, Friedrich Ebert Stiftung, Vanya etc.
MY PHOTOGRAPHY & REFLECTION
Stories look in/out
After graduating from Srishti, I began my residency at AIcrowd as an Artist in Residence, delving into the intersection of communication design and real-time AI applications. This experience culminated in my role as Head of Design, leading the team until August 2022.
I'm now excited to pivot towards a new path, focusing on crafting intuitive UI/UX experiences for digital products and services. My passion lies in harnessing design for social impact, and creating communication-driven solutions that drive positive change. I'm eager to explore the domains of design for social goods and services, and communication-based design solutions.