VizChitra 2025

{Describe your talk/session in 2-3 paragraphs}

We all encounter confusing concepts and overwhelming streams of information while navigating life. Some of us naturally make sense of long texts, but many are more visual learners. As someone who isn’t much of a reader—but is endlessly curious—I’ve always gravitated toward animated explainers. They simplify ideas, make information digestible, and often add a layer of fun.

Over the years, I’ve had the chance to create a few animated explainers from start to finish. Drawing from my formal training in animation short filmmaking and my visual storytelling practice, I’d like to take viewers through my process of creative simplification. This includes everything from research, building a visual library and narrative, choosing colour palettes and crafting styleframes, to animatics, animation, creative transitions, effects, sound, and the final touches.

{Mention 1-2 takeaways from your session}

• How to break down complex information into clear, engaging visual narratives. Also, exploring how adding a sprinkle of motion/animation can add more flavour to our stories.
• How to strike the right balance between voice-over, text, and visuals to avoid overwhelm and deliver a sharp, focused message. Most often, ‘less is more.’

{Who is the audience for your talk/session?}

Anyone who’s curious! Especially those looking to use illustration/animation or video as a storytelling medium, and anyone creating short or long-form visual content or dataviz might find it particularly useful.

{Add your bio, including work place name and your job role}

Nikita Deshpande
Illustrator & Animation Director (ex-BBC News) | Freelance Consultant

With over 11 years of experience in animation, illustration, and visual storytelling, Nikita has worked across a wide range of industries, including editorial, social impact, music videos, games, and more. Formerly a member of the BBC Asia Visual Journalism team, she brings a unique blend of creative expertise and data storytelling skills to every project. Today, she works as a freelance consultant, specializing in simplifying complex information through animation and visual design.

Linkedin Profile: http://linkedin.com/in/nikitadeshpande
Portfolio: https://www.behance.net/nikita_deshpande