DOWN THE TRACK

Matthew Synnes

Graduate of RMIT University, alumni of The George Alexander Foundation Scholarship Program, now Art Director of a company he co-founded, Acoustic Vision.

Matt tells how following his passion for art and music ultimately led him to an unexpected but very satisfying career making good sound an art form.

What course did you study at university?

Bachelor of Applied Science (Photography) – (Hons), in the Photography Arts Department, graduated 2002.

What has been your career path since leaving university? Are you where you expected to be?

After leaving Uni, I worked as a freelance photographer and assisted other photographers part-time and worked on my own project (all-in-all not any great success). During this time I had to work a part-time job to fund my photographic projects.

In 2006, I worked on developing an AcousticART panel with an acoustician – 12 months later we founded a company called ‘Acoustic Vision’. We currently distribute nationally for world leaders in acoustic treatments from Switzerland and USA. Our AcousticART panels have been used in residential and commercial applications and our company is continuing to grow.

I did not expect to be doing what I do, however I have always followed my passions for music and art and this is where it has taken me. It is an exciting journey.

Do you feel there has been any lasting legacy, both personally and professionally, from being a George Alexander Foundation (GAF) Scholarship holder?

Yes definitely, without the scholarship I would have never completed my honours studies and this experience gave me credibility, at least as far as my current business partners were concerned.

It also gave me a level of confidence, and was an acknowledgment of my potential. Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

Continuing to develop ideas and contribute in a meaningful way. I also hope to be reaping the rewards of past efforts so I can spend more time with friends and family.

If you had once piece of advice you would give to a current GAF Scholar to help them reach their potential what would it be?

Set goals both long and short-term and review them constantly. Be persistent and surround yourself with the right people. Stay positive.