My creative process with Kristi Kumrija
From the arts to the sciences, Bath Spa University has a culture of professional creativity, continuing to engage in the pursuit of new narratives and ideas. BSU celebrates the creativity of our staff, students, partners and the wider South-West region.
In this series, we’ll be speaking to professionals from a range of specialisms, gaining valuable insights into their career journeys and creative processes. We’ll find out what a day in their life looks like, where they find their creative inspiration, what advice they would give someone hoping to follow in their footsteps, and much more.
Kristi Kumrija
Kristi Kumrija is UX/UI designer and recent graduate of BSU’s Click Start course. Click Start by Bath Spa University in Creative Digital Skills is part of the nationwide Click Start training programme developed by the Institute of Coding (IoC) – a national collaboration of universities, charities and employers, and funded by Nominet - the public benefit company and guardians of the .UK web domain, which works with charities and organisations that seek to improve lives through technology.
The programme, which launched in 2023, helps to tackle the UK’s digital skills gap by offering skills and training to more than 26,500 learners across the country who may not have previously had opportunities.
Over eight weeks Kristi worked on live briefs, strengthening his problem solving skills, creativity, adaptability and resilience. After graduating from Click Start, he applied for a role as Senior UX Designer and began working for the Cognition Hub, an e-commerce company developing AI products that aim to transform the way we shop online.
Discussing how Click Start helped him secure the role, Kristi said:
“Click Start opened a new window for me. It not only allowed me to connect with amazing people and learn from industry professionals, but it also broadened my understanding of digital product development. The course covered a wide range of topics, including digital marketing, UX/UI design, and web development. I found that gaining knowledge in these different areas gave me valuable perspective and really strengthened my design skills. What made the experience even better was the incredible support I received from everyone involved. I always felt understood, encouraged, and motivated to push myself further.”
A day in my life...
My day usually starts with a goal to get in a walk or a run – although I’ll admit it doesn’t always happen! I usually start early and dive into a blend of design work and team calls. With part of our team in London and the other part in Poland, these calls are essential for keeping us all aligned and connected. Evenings are flexible – sometimes I unwind and relax, other times I head out, catch up on a good read or show, or spend time learning about topics that spark my interest.
My creative process
My creative process begins with understanding the problem or the goal that the product owner envisions. From there, I dive into gathering information to uncover all possible options and constraints. I’ll read up, explore different examples, analyze, and gather enough data to give my mind the material it needs to start connecting the dots. This research phase is crucial because it allows me to make informed decisions that shape the direction of the design.
Once I’ve done the research, I transition into designing and experimenting with various approaches. While initial ideas may surface early on, they’re often biased by first impressions, so it’s essential for me to fully grasp the context. That way, my creativity is grounded and truly aligns with the needs of the people who will be using the product.
I get my inspiration from...
I draw inspiration from a wide range of life’s experiences, often finding it in unexpected places. I find beauty and inspiration in music, art, stunning architecture, and the flawless designs found in nature. When I fly, I’m captivated by airplanes, reflecting on their intricate designs and engineering. Ultimately, I am inspired by people and their creations that enhance lives, evoke emotions, and spark inspiration in others.
I get my motivation from...
Honestly, it might sound a bit unusual, but I find it in moments of rest and reflection. When I can step away from the hustle and bustle, and just allow myself to wonder and ponder, that's when things really click for me. It's like taking a step back allows me to see the bigger picture, gain a fresh perspective, and suddenly, I'm energised and motivated to tackle whatever's next.
My creative space...
My ideal creative space is definitely one that's buzzing with people. Being around others energises me and fuels my imagination, so I struggle to work in isolation. That said, I still need to be able to focus! Popping on my headphones and getting lost in music or a podcast helps me create my own little bubble of concentration within that larger atmosphere.
The most creative project I’ve worked on...
One of the most creative projects I've worked on was designing an advertising app based in Los Angeles. This project presented numerous challenges, which pushed me to think outside the box and develop innovative solutions. I loved the process of tackling these issues and finding ways to enhance the user experience, making it a truly rewarding and imaginative endeavor.
The creative project I want to work on...
One creative project I wish I could have been a part of is the design of the Red Bull Racing RB19 Formula One car, collaborating with the brilliant Adrian Newey. The blend of cutting-edge engineering and innovative design in Formula One fascinates me, and contributing to such a high-performance vehicle would have been an incredible experience.
My creative idol is...
I wouldn’t say I have a creative idol, but there are many individuals I admire and learn from, including Jony Ive, Steve Jobs, Adrian Newey, Chris Do, and Denzel Washington. Each of them has made a significant impact in their respective fields, inspiring me with their work and dedication. Their innovative approaches and achievements motivate me to push my own creative boundaries.
Three things that enhance my creativity...
First and foremost is sleep. It’s essential for recharging my energy levels, which I need to think creatively. Second, I find that participating in activities outside my usual work keeps my mind sharp and fresh, allowing for new ideas to flourish. Finally, reading plays a crucial role in my creative process, as it exposes me to diverse perspectives and inspires my thinking.
What creativity brings to my life...
Creativity enriches my life by opening doors to new possibilities and allowing me to express myself in unique ways. It encourages me to think outside the box and discover unexpected solutions to challenges.
What do I do when I have a creativity block...
When my creativity hits a wall, I find it's best to step away from whatever I'm working on and clear my head. Sometimes that means going for a walk, a run, or just doing something completely different for a while. Other times, I find it helpful to just start working without overthinking the end result. I experiment, try different things, and eventually, the pieces start to fall into place and the creative juices start flowing again.
One piece of advice I would give to someone wanting to follow in my footsteps...
If you’re considering a career in UX/UI design, my biggest piece of advice is to embrace the journey of continuous learning and self-discovery. While the field is accessible to newcomers, standing out becomes increasingly challenging as you advance. To differentiate yourself, learn the established rules, but don’t be afraid to question and push beyond them. It’s essential to take risks and be willing to face the hurdles that come your way.
What's your professional creative journey? Let us know at communications@bathspa.ac.uk