Illustrator and founder of ‘ThoughtLine Design Studio’, Nishikant Palande graduated from Sir J.J. School of Applied Art, Mumbai. He is the proud holder of awards including 3 silver at Asia Pacific Adfest 2011, 3 silver at Cannes Lions 2011, 2 silver at Goafest 2013 and 1 bronze at Goafest 2013.
10 years of experience in freelancing has brought about a good understanding of clients and their project briefs in him. With a specialization in Illustration and Designing, his work portrays the perfect fusion of knowledge and modern Indian style. You can see and appreciate his work here.

A little about your outfit ThoughtLine. What do you do?
ThoughtLine is a 2.5 years young design studio, based in Navi Mumbai. We are mostly into Illustration, Animatics, 3D illustration, Body Painting and Wall Painting.

What made you start ThoughtLine?
A decade of experience in freelancing has given me a good understanding of my clients. The regular workload only went on increasing, and so I decided to start my own business.

Tell us about your designers/animators. Did they go into fine art or design schools? How do you pick them up?
The entire team has a Design School background. I usually select them from among my college and friend circle. For those coming up by themselves with an interest in training, I provide it free of cost. I believe exposure and learning should be available to anyone and everyone with a genuine interest.

Can you tell us the process of building a design language for a brand?
It is currently in process. I am making efforts to work on building a design language for the brand.

How important is the focus on good design in ThoughtLine?
My focus is not only good design, but also quality work and originality.

What does ThoughtLine do which sets it apart?
Among much globalization and new trends, ThoughtLine Design Studio represents Indian Art and Culture.

Were there any particular role models for you when you grew up?
Not really.

Who was the most influential personality on your career in Brand Building?
It wasn’t just one personality. There are many excellent illustrators, designers, friends and family who have had an influence on my career. My wife is currently helping me substantially in being a better Illustrator, designer and entrepreneur.

Do you work with any advertising agencies? Or mostly directly with brand teams at clients’ side?
I have worked with advertising agencies like Mccann Erickson, Ogilvy & Mather, Leo Burnett, Mudra, Law & Kenneth, BBDO Guerrero (Philippines), BBDO Masco (Russia), BBH, JWT, Publicis, Contract, Makani creatives, Lowe Lintas, Rediffusion, Famous Innovations, Taproot, Grey and many more. And I have also worked directly with brand teams at the client side.

What do you feel about the state of design in India? Do you feel that our collective aesthetics need to improve?
I believe this is the best time for designers in India. Mostly well established and emerging brands are looking for new and strong work for their products. We are improving with each day, developing great design ideas & new styles, appreciating the simplicity of objects and applying that in works.

Any other Indian design firms that you admire?
Not really.

What advice do you have for aspiring creative professionals? Would you advise them to take on graphic design as a career option?
I would definitely recommend Designing as a great career option. If they have the interest and passion, they should work towards it.

Who would your design team like to take out for dinner?
I would like to take Mr. Amitabh Bachchan out for dinner along with my family.

What’s on the company iPod?
I don’t have an iPod.

Mac or PC?
Both.

What’s your Twitter Handle?
@Tldstudio1