We were lucky to catch up with Shamim Shoomali recently and have shared our conversation below.
Shamim, thank you so much for joining us today. Let’s jump right into something we’re really interested in hearing about from you – being the only one in the room. So many of us find ourselves as the only woman in the room, the only immigrant or the only artist in the room, etc. Can you talk to us about how you have learned to be effective and successful in situations where you are the only one in the room like you?
I’m an artist at a tech university and often feel isolated. However, I realize everyone can feel isolated, even in familiar settings, until they discover the right way to communicate. Therefore, I remind myself to be approachable and kind because, in essence, this is the first time for all of us to navigate life.
Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?
I feel envious when I hear someone describe their occupation in just one word. I wish I had such a vibrant vocabulary to encapsulate what I do, but since I don’t, I describe my professional focus as a design researcher and interactive media artist. Working at the intersection of two or more fields means you are a trailblazer. You must be vigilant about building your journey, brick by brick since there is no guide to follow.
Let’s break it down: What is a design researcher? What is an interactive media artist?
A design researcher seeks to find answers to specific questions by designing systems, artifacts, and processes. For instance, my current research focuses on improving deep learning in college-level classrooms through reflective and ludic design. I have created a set of interactive activities for my theory classes, where students engage in hands-on projects while having fun reflecting on their experiences. This process helps them better understand mundane and complex theoretical topics.
One of my other research projects involved designing online activities to study how to create community-based products that enhance the overall health of specific communities while respecting their beliefs.
Being an interactive media artist means thinking about how your art can foster engagement. I create illustrated pieces for interactive purposes, develop interactive storytelling websites that allow users to choose multi-linear storylines, and produce 2D animated films.
So, if you are passionate about more than one thing, consider this a warm hug from me. The world is vast enough for all multidisciplinary individuals!
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Let me highlight one aspect for each category:
Quality: Every time you say no to something that is not your priority, you are affirming your commitment to establishing yourself in a way that resonates with you. But how do you do this? By saying no to unsolicited advice, you create mental space to listen to your inner voice.
Skill: I would choose drawing. Regardless of the field you are pursuing, practicing drawing strengthens the connection between your eyes, mind, and hand. The stronger this connection, the greater your ability for self-expression and cognitive development.
Knowledge: In today’s fast-paced world, knowing how to avoid burnout is essential. We constantly face deadlines and an endless stream of tasks, so understanding how to take time off is crucial to prevent burnout.
Okay, so before we go we always love to ask if you are looking for folks to partner or collaborate with?
As an animation director and media artist, I’d love folks who would like to join me in working toward a short animated film or an interactive media project. if you are a 2 animator, sound designer, illustrator, creative programmer or if you simply have an idea that you hunch would turn into a good animated movie, I am an email away!
Additionally, I would love to participate in design research projects. If you are seeking user experience research or any collaboration in design research, don’t hesitate to contact me.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://shamimshoomali.wixsite.com/shamimsjourney
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/shamimshoomali
- Linkedin: https://linkedin.com/in/shamim-shoomali
Image Credits
Shamim Shoomali
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