Based in London, Shiv (the mind behind STUDIO THEO), is a multidisciplinary designer whose work spans footwear design, graphic design, and content creation – but more is on the horizon for him, and his audience. In this article, we delve into his journey, the challenges he faces, and the insights he’s gained along the way.
A Passion Ignited in the Classroom
From an early age, Shiv found his passion in design. His love for Design & Technology class in school set the foundation for what would become a lifelong pursuit. This interest led him to study Product & Industrial Design at Central Saint Martins, one of the world’s most prestigious design schools.
“The ability to blend art, engineering, making, and psychology inspired me,” Shiv reflects. It’s this unique combination of disciplines that continues to fuel his work and drive his creative explorations today.
The Vision Behind STUDIO THEO
Named after his grandfather, STUDIO THEO is a reflection of Shiv’s personal and professional aspirations. More than just a design studio, it serves as a hub for creative experimentation and community building.
“Right now, I’m focused on conceptual footwear design, graphic design, and content creation,” Shiv explains, “but I plan to expand the studio’s scope.” His vision for STUDIO THEO includes creating tangible items that people can engage with – whether clothing, posters, everyday objects, or more. The studio is not just a brand; it’s a platform meant to inspire others and foster community spirit.
Essential Skills for Success
When asked about the key skills necessary for success in design, Shiv highlights a diverse toolkit: Visual Communication, Graphic Design, Storytelling, Art Direction, Sketching, Content Creation, Strategy Creation, and Critical Thinking. These skills, he notes, will be helpful for any designer looking to make a meaningful impact.
Career-Defining Moments
For Shiv, being accepted into the Cannes Lions Creative Academy, the ‘30 Under 30’ for creatives worldwide, was a significant milestone in his career. “It represents years of dedication, collaboration, experimentation and creative expression”, he says, and STUDIO THEO played a vital role in that. The studio has not only shaped his perspective of the world, but has allowed him to form relationships with incredible people, from across the globe.
The Challenges of Real Life
Balancing an array of activities comes with its own set of challenges. For Shiv, he openly admits his biggest struggle is time management. Juggling a full-time job, running STUDIO THEO, and keeping up with personal commitments like training in the gym and maintaining a social life, requires serious planning. “There needs to be balance to avoid burnout, so effective planning is essential”, he advises.
Staying Inspired and Evolving
Shiv draws inspiration from the work of others – whether they are designers, artists, creators, or innovators in other fields. “Whenever I feel like I’m outgrowing my content, I explore new routes,” he shares. This constant push for innovation is what keeps his design work fresh and dynamic. In fact, he is always finding ways to evolve his content and implements changes regularly – a reflection of his commitment to risk-taking and growth.
Words of Wisdom for Aspiring Designers
For upcoming designers and creatives, Shiv offers some practical and motivational advice:
Share your work and your process.
Develop your personal brand.
Connect meaningfully with others.
Learn by doing.
Find balance and flow.
Most importantly, know your “WHY”.
Conclusion
Shiv’s journey with STUDIO THEO is a testament to the power of dedication, creative experimentation, and the drive to constantly evolve. Through his multidisciplinary approach, he not only explores different facets of design, but also creates a space for others to be inspired and innovate. As he continues to expand his studio and push the boundaries of his work, one thing is clear: STUDIO THEO is more than just a design studio – it’s a creative movement.
