MEET HASHMUKH KERAI, Q&A WITH H+ ROSTER ARTIST

Hashmukh Kerai is a 3D Artist and Motion Designer from London, UK. He creates bold, colourful art that radiates fun and playfulness in every piece.Hash's creative journey began in Film and Production, where he honed his visual storytelling skills. His path took an exciting turn when he discovered his true passion, VFX, especially Motion Graphics and Design.

This transition allowed him to fully explore his fascination with moving imagery, which became a constant throughout his career.

Today, Hash creates art that pushes beyond the physical world's boundaries. Using his VFX expertise, he brings imaginative concepts to life. His work seamlessly blends reality with fantasy, creating visually striking and mind-bending pieces. These creations captivate audiences and challenge perceptions of what's possible in digital art.

Here's some words he shared with us:

H+: Your work exudes such a bright and playful nature– what were some of your earliest inspirations that contributed to the vibrant scenes you create today?

Hashmukh Kerai: I believe this all stems from my childhood and the art of play. Deep down, I'm still a kid at heart who loves creating with the intent of having fun and exploring. This playful approach allows me to maintain a sense of wonder and curiosity in my work. I particularly enjoy the idea of combining elements that traditionally might not seem compatible. Through playful experimentation and pushing boundaries, I often end up with an out-of-this-world, fun piece of art. This process of unexpected combinations and creative exploration is what keeps my work fresh and exciting for me to keep making.

H+: What made you choose to transition from film and production to motion graphics and design?

Hashmukh Kerai: I predominantly loved the editing side, finding myself having more fun slicing up videos and playing with text and transitions. This led me to explore what else I could do with video, and I decided to try out Adobe After Effects. I was completely hooked. It gave me the foundation for learning about motion graphics and animation principles. I dove in, started having fun, and haven't stopped since.

H+: What are three words you would use to describe your creative output?

Hashmukh Kerai: FUN, COLOURFUL, COOL

H+: How do you express your emotions through your art?

Hashmukh Kerai: I hope the joy I experience while creating art shines through in the final product. Particularly with personal and side projects, I can only create when I'm having fun and in the right mindset. Otherwise, it becomes a chore, and that's not why I create art.

H+: You’ve worked with some impressive brands & clients, from Nickelodeon and Adidas to BBC and Amazon– what have been some of the highlights of your creative career so far?

Hashmukh Kerai: I would have to say my work helping rebrand and create all the visuals for the 2024 Nickelodeon Kids' Choice Awards. This project was a real career highlight as so much of it was informed by the fun and playful world I've been creating over the years. The brief was very open, allowing me to incorporate a lot of what I love making most, for such a global brand and on a huge stage with millions watching the awards.

H+: What are your guilty pleasures when you're not actively working on new artistic projects?

Hashmukh Kerai: I love taking time out to play video games, even though it sometimes feels like a guilty pleasure. It's actually a necessary break from work that allows my mind to rest and recharge. Gaming offer a healthy escape, helping me relax and often sparking unexpected creative ideas for my artistic projects. While I might occasionally spend more time gaming than intended, I've learned to appreciate its value in maintaining a good work-life balance and fueling my imagination.

H+: In your opinion, what is the most challenging aspect of being an artist?

Hashmukh Kerai: Constant innovation is challenging, which is why I prioritize it in my work and career. It can be difficult to accept what I've created without criticizing every flaw, but viewing it all as an ongoing process and journey makes the art of creating easier. This perspective helps me embrace the evolving nature of my work rather than fixating on perfection.

H+: What advice would you give to aspiring artists looking to transition between industries?

Hashmukh Kerai: Finding a niche you genuinely enjoy is crucial. It eases the transition if you discover something you're uniquely skilled at. Start with small steps, then make the leap once you've gained some footing. It took me a number of years to go from just making 2D Motion Graphics to then taking on more 3D art. I had to practice a bunch in my spare time, then slowly introduce it into my portfolio in hopes to be hired for it by clients.

H+: If you didn't pursue a creative career, what other path would you have chosen?

Hashmukh Kerai: I actually went to college to study engineering, so much sadly, that!

H+: Do you BELIEVE (in aliens)?

Hashmukh Kerai: Not quite the big eyed green dudes, but I’m sure something is out there… Right?

For more information on Hash's portfolio page!