Hasta La Creative!

Abhijit Kalan is known to most as ‘Kawla’ (or crow). One fine day he started drawing a crow. He hasn’t stopped yet. The count till date is 134. Currently he’s working as an Art Director in Rediffusion Y&R.

Why are you an Illustrator?
I don’t know. I majored in photography and grew up envying illustrators. I still don’t think of myself as an illustrator. I simply doodle and luckily they seem to work.

Did you attend school for fine art or design?
I’m a BFA in photography from Sir JJ Institute of Applied Art.

You have a distinct style of illustration. How long did it take you to develop your style?
It didn’t take me long to develop it. It just took me some time to realise that I have developed what seems to be a distinct style.

Were there any particular role models for you when you grew up?
Several. Though as far illustration is concerned I would name Mr. Kulkarni, my professor at JJ.

Who was the most influential personality on your career in Illustrations?
Sameer Kulkarni, my classmate, who is an illustrator.

What made you decide to become a freelance illustrator? When did you start freelancing? Do you illustrate for advertising?
I don’t really freelance. I’ve been doing it for fun. People who have observed my work sometimes approach me for a project. I just did an illustration for a campaign I’m working on.

Are many advertising agencies getting illustrations made these days? Do you work more with agencies or publishers?
I work for friends. For fun, not money. I have done illustrations just for my agency.

Was there any time when you wanted to quit Illustrations?
Illustration comes as naturally to me as breathing. You don’t quit breathing.

Have you considered turning your illustrations into toys?
I have considered turning my illustrations into many things. Toys are just one part of the plan

Any other Indian Illustrators who you admire?
Dileep Khomane, Archan Nair and many more

Do you have any favorite fellow illustrators or resources relating to your fields?
Sameer Kulkarni, Neha Karira.

You have such a wide experience as a top working professional. What advice do you have for aspiring creative professionals? Would you advise them to take on Illustration as a career option? Is it paying well enough?
All I wish to say is, illustrate for fulfilment. Money will follow.

Who would you like to take out for dinner?
Not a fellow illustrator for sure.

What’s on your iPod?
Besides music, 40 GB of movies.

Mac or PC?
Mac