Aunika's Journey Through NYC's Creative Landscape
Aunika, a rising creative director and photographer, brings a unique perspective shaped by childhood experiences in Brooklyn photo studios and powered by her imagination.
Early Beginnings: A Studio Child
Aunika's journey into visual arts began in a small photo studio in Crown Heights, Brooklyn. As the daughter of a Trinidadian immigrant who worked at a local photo booth, Aunika found herself surrounded by art and photography from an early age. "My mom used to put me in different backdrops, different sets," she recalls, describing days spent as a model among teddy bears, fake podiums, and crafted scenes.
Through middle and high school, Aunika returned to visit, maintaining a connection to where her visual education began. This exposure to traditional studio photography informed her innovative approach to creative direction and set design.
The Reel Works Turning Point
In 2017, at George Westinghouse High School, Aunika encountered an opportunity that reshaped her creative trajectory. Reel Works, a New York-based organization focused on youth filmmaking, visited her class. Here, she joined "Women Wednesdays," a program that became instrumental in her development as an artist. These weekly gatherings, led by mentors Abby and Cherry, provided a supportive community where young women discussed personal challenges and professional aspirations.
"Every Wednesday at Reel Works, a bunch of girls would come, and each day had a different topic," Aunika explains. The program produced monthly zines, allowing participants to express themselves through various mediums. For one body-positive issue, Aunika contributed poetry, marking her early experiments with creative expression.
Evolution of a Creative Vision
As Aunika developed her artistic voice, she recognized the power of merging technical skills with imaginative vision. Her approach to creativity is unique – she embraces a "delusional" perspective, viewing the world through "funky eyes" rather than conforming to conventional traditions.
Her inspiration sources are distinctive, drawing from cartoons like "Chowder" and "Dragon Tales." "My childhood was based on escaping reality through imagination," she explains. This foundation in animated storytelling influences her work's vibrant color palette and imaginative compositions.
Color Theory and Visual Storytelling
Color theory anchors Aunika's work. "I adore color theory," she emphasizes. "Understanding color theory means understanding how to put things together." Through her craft she explores shades, tints, and relationships between hues.
This understanding of color and imaginative vision creates striking visual narratives. Her upcoming project, "Let Them Eat the Cake" demonstrates her ability to synthesize historical references, fantasy elements, and contemporary styling into a cohesive vision. Drawing inspiration from Marie Antoinette and "Alice in Wonderland," the project illustrates her ability to create immersive experiences.
Challenges and Growth
Like many emerging creatives in New York, Aunika has faced challenges. She speaks about experiencing imposter syndrome, questioning whether she could handle increasing responsibilities and larger projects. Her success with major brands and growing portfolio have solidified her confidence.
Resource constraints challenge her ambitious creative concepts. "My ideas keep getting bigger," she explains, noting considerations of hiring makeup artists, securing locations, and acquiring props. These limitations sharpened her problem-solving abilities and strengthened her commitment to bringing her vision to life.
Looking Forward: A Creative Future
As Aunika develops her voice in New York's creative landscape, her trajectory points to an exciting future in creative direction and photography. Her combination of technical skill, imaginative vision, and practical experience positions her for continued success.
Her work represents a fresh perspective in contemporary visual storytelling that celebrates imagination while maintaining professional polish. When asked about her plans, she states: "I will be worldwide."
The Impact of Mentorship and Community
Throughout her journey, community and mentorship remain constant. From her early days in the Brooklyn photo studio to her involvement with Reel Works, Aunika's story demonstrates supportive creative communities' vital role in nurturing talent.
Her experience highlights the value of programs providing young creatives with technical skills and space to develop unique voices. Women Wednesdays offered creative guidance and a foundation for professional development and personal growth.
Vision for the Future
Aunika's journey from child model to creative director illustrates evolving creative careers in New York City. Her success stems from merging childhood imagination with professional execution, creating standout work in a competitive industry.
As she develops her voice and expands her influence, Aunika represents a new generation of creative directors reshaping visual storytelling. Her work reminds us that in creative direction and photography, the most potent tool might be seeing the world through our own "funky eyes" – and having the courage to share that vision.