Meet Design for Play alumnus Jaivardhan Singh Channey
To start, tell us a little about yourself!
I’m Jaivardhan Singh Channey, a designer, digital magician, and Founder of Studio Mesmer. Ever since I was a kid, I’ve been fascinated with the idea of magic. My fascination translated to my love for design, and I graduated with a scholarship from Srishti Institute of Art, Design and Technology, Bangalore with a Bachelor of Creative Arts in Experimental Media Arts.
I then went on to work for The Quint and helped launch Quint Lab, an initiative that produced multiple award-winning new media stories and innovative digital interactive games. After my time at The Quint, I completed my Master’s degree in Design for Play from Design School Kolding with a full scholarship. This is where I combined my love for immersive design with new media to build playful digital and physical experiences. Throughout my academic pursuits, my focus remained steadfast on bridging the gap between humans and technology through immersive and interactive experiences imbued with a sense of playfulness.
Now tell us something about your professional journey as a play designer. Where are you currently employed?
My journey as a play designer traces back to my formative years at Srishti, where I first discovered the magic of merging playfulness with technology. Design School Kolding provided me with the perfect platform to refine and formalize this passion. This journey culminated in the establishment of Studio Mesmer, a design studio specializing in crafting engaging digital interfaces.
Based in the heart of innovation, our studio is privileged to collaborate with esteemed partners such as Tinder, Amazon Prime Video, the United Nations, Dalberg, and renowned figures like Boman Irani. At Studio Mesmer, our mission revolves around curating playful digital experiences that resonate with audiences worldwide. From immersive storytelling to cutting-edge augmented reality encounters, we collaborate closely with industry leaders to transform their visions into captivating realities.
Our dedicated team of nine individuals, comprising talented designers and developers, works tirelessly to bring these experiences to life. As the founder of our design studio, my role encompasses a spectrum of responsibilities, from overseeing operations and team management to hands-on involvement in the design process, ideation, and even business development.
Tell us about the value you bring as a play designer to your workplace. What has been the role of the Design School Kolding Master’s programme in getting you where you are today?
As a play designer, my contribution to the workplace extends far beyond mere design expertise. At Studio Mesmer, my background in play design has been instrumental in fostering a vibrant and inclusive working culture. Despite the challenges of remote collaboration, we've cultivated a uniquely playful environment that encourages cross-disciplinary collaboration and continuous learning.
One of the hallmarks of our studio is our willingness to embrace the unconventional. Projects that might be deemed "bizarre" by others are seen as exciting opportunities for us to flex our creative muscles. This mindset, cultivated through my experiences as a play designer and further honed during my Master's programme, has instilled in us the confidence to push boundaries and explore new territories.
At the heart of it all lies a commitment to infusing playfulness into the everyday. Whether it's reimagining mundane tasks or injecting whimsy into client briefs, our dedication to the transformative power of play is deeply ingrained in our approach. This ethos not only fuels our creativity but also fosters a sense of joy and fulfillment in our work.
Let’s reflect on your time in Kolding. What are your favourite memories, and are there other things you’d like to share?
Reflecting on my time in Kolding brings forth a treasure trove of cherished memories, each contributing to a transformative experience. Among the most cherished aspects was the rich diversity that defined our cohort—a group of 20 individuals hailing from 14 different countries. This kaleidoscope of cultures not only enriched our learning environment but also broadened our perspectives in ways that are truly invaluable.
Beyond the realm of play design, my time in Kolding gifted me with a profound appreciation for the intricacies of global cultures. The bonds forged with both classmates and faculty members transcended mere academic pursuits, evolving into enduring connections built on mutual respect and understanding.
As an individual from India, immersing myself in the vibrant tapestry of Danish culture offered me a unique opportunity for personal growth. Witnessing the nuances of daily life in Kolding and Denmark at large allowed me to glean insights into the subtle differences that distinguish cultures. This cross-cultural exchange has not only enriched my worldview but also inspired me to explore synergies between diverse cultural practices, seeking to amalgamate the best of both worlds in my endeavors back home.
Do you have any advice to give to someone undertaking this educational path?
If you're embarking on this educational journey, my advice would be to embrace experimentation wholeheartedly. This is your chance to explore and try out different ideas, techniques, and approaches. Don't let fear hold you back; instead, view each experiment as an opportunity for growth and discovery.
Furthermore, don't be afraid to pursue your passions even after your education is complete. Whether it's in the field of play design or any other endeavour, staying true to what you love is key to finding fulfillment and success. Remember that the skills and knowledge you gain during your education are tools to help you carve out your own path in the world. So, stay curious, stay passionate, and never stop exploring the endless possibilities that lie ahead.
