Hello! My name is Zakia Kirti, but you can call me Kia. I’m a design researcher with a passion for design analysis and a special focus on cross-cultural design and visual arts. My background in Visual Communication Design, which I studied at Bina Nusantara University in Indonesia, has allowed me to explore both the technical and conceptual sides of design. Over the past few years, I’ve been working on various projects that combine the analytical aspects of design with creativity, from visual storytelling to cultural design elements. Recently, I had the incredible opportunity to participate in the "Art Major Faculty Explore K-Arts" (AMFEK) program through the Cultural Partnership Initiative (CPI), hosted by the Korean National University of Arts (K-Arts). This experience was transformative, allowing me to immerse myself in Korean culture and discover new dimensions in art and design.

The training at K-Arts was truly transformative in ways I hadn’t anticipated. The AMFEK program offered an interdisciplinary approach that encouraged a fusion of diverse artistic styles, which was a dream come true for someone interested in cross-cultural design. One of the most valuable parts was the collaborative environment. I worked on projects that merged Indonesian and Korean artistic elements, creating a cultural exchange that felt both innovative and deeply meaningful. These projects were unique in that they couldn’t have been created in isolation—they required the shared insights of different cultural backgrounds, which was both challenging and immensely rewarding.

What impressed me most about the program was how Korean artists blend tradition with modernity in their work. Korean art, I found, has a way of respecting and celebrating its roots while seamlessly integrating contemporary elements, which creates a sense of timelessness. This approach mirrors CPI’s mission to foster mutual understanding through cultural exchange, a philosophy that resonated with me throughout my journey. I also had the chance to learn some Korean, which helped me connect more closely with my peers and the local community, further enriching my experience. The friendships, collaboration, and exposure to such a dynamic art environment have significantly expanded my creative horizons.

The decision to join the CPI program came from a genuine interest in cultural exchange and my passion for learning new perspectives in design. CPI and AMFEK's mission to promote international cultural understanding resonated deeply with me, and I had a friend who had participated previously. Her experiences and stories were so inspiring—they fueled my own desire to participate. I saw it as an ideal opportunity to explore Korean art and design, which I admire for its unique combination of tradition and innovation.

I expected the program to be a rich learning experience where I could gain hands-on exposure to Korean art's intricate balance of historical and contemporary influences. Additionally, I looked forward to making connections with other creative individuals from around the world. I was also keen to bring new ideas back to Indonesia, especially regarding cultural exchange projects that could bridge Indonesian and Korean art. Beyond these expectations, I wanted to refine my design research skills, gain a deeper understanding of how cultural influences shape design, and hopefully inspire others with new perspectives.

Absolutely. Since returning to Indonesia, I’ve found numerous ways to incorporate what I learned in Korea into my work. A significant project that emerged from my CPI experience is a set of "word cards" designed to introduce traditional foods from both Indonesia and Korea. These cards highlight the similarities between our culinary cultures, such as the use of similar ingredients and preparation methods. Beyond just being informative, the cards serve as conversation starters, symbolizing the creative potential of cultural exchange. The project has been particularly meaningful to me because it emphasizes our shared cultural heritage while celebrating the unique characteristics of each culture.

The experience also transformed how I approach my research and design projects. I now strive to look for ways to blend cultural elements and create a design language that communicates across borders. In my role as a design researcher, I’m constantly inspired to seek out cultural connections, and I apply this outlook in my analyses, making my work richer and more nuanced. This experience with CPI has truly enriched my current role, giving me fresh perspectives and techniques that continue to influence my design work.