Asmita Kerkar’s efforts in addressing food insecurity in Minnesota through her expertise in design psychology have revolutionized the food Shelf Experience. Asmita, originally from Belagavi did her schooling at St. Josephs, later GSS College, and then her Bachelor’s degree at GIT Belagavi plays a crucial role in utilizing design principles to enhance the effectiveness of food distribution programs and create a positive impact on recipients. The article explores her unique approach and contributions to fighting food insecurity in the region.
Asmita Kerkar, a layout designer with the Foundation for Essential Needs (FFEN), has significantly impacted the fight against food insecurity in Minnesota, USA through her expertise in design psychology. Over the three years of her association with FFEN, Asmita has played a crucial role in enhancing the efficiency of almost seven food shelves in the state, creating a safe and engaging environment for community involvement.
Recognizing the severity of food insecurity in the US, with nearly 34 million people affected, Asmita has focused on alleviating the stigma associated with shopping at food shelves for those facing economic challenges.
Understanding the psychological impact of spatial design, Asmita has introduced vibrant colors, collaborated with artists, and implemented effective signage to uplift the mood of individuals using food shelves. By transforming linear aisles into diagonal ones, she has improved the overall shopping experience. Asmita’s journey into spatial design began after initially pursuing fashion design and later transitioning to architecture due to her passion for the correlation between spaces and human psychology. Her interest intensified during her master’s in environmental design in the US, where she started volunteering with FFEN.
As a spatial designer, Asmita has created toolkits, including guidebooks and graphical posters, to address challenges in food shelf layouts. These toolkits focus on altering perceptions, such as using tilted baskets to display limited produce in a way that appears abundant. Additionally, she has raised awareness about the proper display of produce to prevent spoilage. Her work has contributed to creating inclusive and dignified spaces for individuals facing food insecurity. Asmita measures her success by the positive impact on people’s lives, emphasizing her commitment to design for social impact and the satisfaction derived from helping hundreds of individuals daily.