Akanshya Upadhyay आकांक्षा उपाध्याय

graphic design generalist based in washington dc. working with visual identity systems, experiential graphics, print and digital formats.

currently at national children’s museum. 
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1. The Sound Of
An explorative archive of my memories of different sounds, in complete textual form. The absence of any sound experience creates space for readers to auralize my descriptions in their own imagination. This project idea started with heavy research into archiving and collecting data, as well as methods of presenting an archive. and led me to think about the value of information once it becomes part of an archive. The intangible nature of memories made me question and challenge what an archive could contain. This zine arises as a result of exploration of memories of sounds.

Sparse layouts and minimal content on each spread visualize scattered memories gently revealing themselves. The zine is printed entirely on translucent vellum based on the delicate and layered values of memory.

2. You Got Charm!

Designed, screenprinted and letterpressed a Baltimore themed poster produced during my internship at Globe Collection & Press (2022). I utilized illustrations, handlettering, catchy word combinations, and blocks of shapes to create a vibrant and visually engaging composition.

14" x 22" poster printed on Insulation Pink French Paper
two color screen print with hand set wood type from Globe Collection.
design inspired by Baltimore's iconic row homes.

Get yourself a copy here



3. untitled
Riso-printed illustrated booklet that pairs abstract visuals with unrelated text, in an attempt to encourage readers to interpret their own meaning. Untitled to avoid assumptions, the flow invites a unique and personal experience.

exhibited at Sounds About Riso, New York City 2022

4.  Not (Just) A Problem Solver
We curated, designed and installed a collaborative exhibition at the Maryland Institute College of Art (MICA), showcasing student work that explore and challenge the familiarity in graphic design and deconstruct traditional design narratives.  


Does design always need to solve a problem?

Collaborator: Chloe Vo, MICAGD Department
Exhibition Dates: Nov 1-20, 2022
Venue: Brown Center, Maryland Institute College of Art