Gold Coast Creative (Issue 4)

Page 1

issue four. 2013

proudly produced by

563005 771838 9

ISSN: 1838-563X

celebrating the cultural & creative growth of the gold coast.

ISSUE 4 2013

$19.95 (inc gst)

celebrating the cultural & creative growth of the gold coast.

issue four. 2013


thank you for supporting the cultural & creative growth of the gold coast.




Foreword The Queensland College of Art (QCA) is a vital part of Griffith University’s commitment to the growth of education and research across the creative sector. Founded in 1881 the QCA has provided a continuous distinguished record of educating artists, designers and film makers who have subsequently gone on to make their contribution to the growth and development of our national visual culture. As a part of a multi-campus University capturing the dynamic growth of the South East Queensland corridor, the QCA has located its principal interdisciplinary degree—the Bachelor of Digital Media—at its expanding Gold Coast campus. This degree course maintains the QCA tradition of focus on the importance of industry practice within its educational philosophy. Students in this degree are offered the opportunity to work on substantial industry projects through our in-house work integrated learning environments such as Liveworm and the Argus and through our numerous partnerships with other schools and faculties such as Engineering, Architecture, Communication, Information Technology, Law and Business. The launch of this new edition of, Gold Coast Creative, coincides with a period of considerable expansion of our degree program mirroring the concomitant expansion of the Gold Coast creative community. This 2013 publication, as in past years, contains the work of some of our best young emerging graduates as well as the work of alumni who have achieved recognition in their respective fields. It also focuses on those companies situated at the cutting-edge of design application within the business community. At QCA we have enjoyed a fulsome and productive relationship with the Gold Coast City Council for many years, so we are especially delighted to welcome the City of Gold Coast as principal sponsor of the 2013 Gold Coast Creative (Foundation sponsor of Gold Coast Creative Awards). The council has partnered with us to identify and grow the creative potential of the Gold Coast region by showcasing content from the Gold Coast Creative on its primary website and by sponsoring pages from key creatives on the Gold Coast. We want to thank the council and acknowledge their significant contribution to the growth of creative entrepreneurship throughout this dynamic region. We are very proud of all the work showcased in Gold Coast Creative which contributes in a very significant way to making the Gold Coast an exciting and dynamic place to live, work and study.

Associate Professor Donal Fitzpatrick
 Deputy Director (Gold Coast)
 Queensland College of Art, Griffith University


Gold Coast Campus

Griffith Health Centre.

Griffith University’s Gold Coast campus is the University’s largest and most comprehensive campus and is set to become one of the most impressive campuses in the country. It is home to over 16,000 students, and offers world-class research and teaching facilities as a keystone to the Gold Coast Health and Knowledge precinct. This year has seen the opening of our state-of-the-art Griffith Health Centre, our new Learning Commons and the Gumurrii Student Support Unit. Construction on the University’s new Business School building fronting Parklands Drive is well underway and is scheduled to be completed by mid-2014. With the co-located Gold Coast University Hospital opened in September 2013, Griffith Gold Coast campus is at the centre of one of the largest university-hospital partnerships in the country. Significant developments are also underway in the surrounding area. Construction of the Gold Coast’s new light rail system is due for completion in mid-2014. The system (with two stations on Griffith’s perimeter) will greatly improve public transport access to our campus and also support the development of the Commonwealth Games Athletes Village adjacent to the University campus. The light rail will link Griffith to the city’s CBD and beach suburbs from Parklands to Broadbeach. With all this going on, next year and beyond will see an exciting knowledge-based hub created with students, health care workers and local community members interconnecting and collaborating to create a compelling social and intellectual space for University staff and students and the Gold Coast community.

Professor Ned Pankhurst Provost Gold Coast campus


Mission Statement The 2013 Gold Coast Creative Yearbook aims to initiate a dynamic cultural perception of the Gold Coast and help launch fresh links with the community. Proving that the Gold Coast has much to offer in terms of unique design strengths and creative diversity, the publication features emerging artists, groundbreaking ideas, innovative community projects and supporters of The Arts from the region. The Yearbook also showcases the work of the 2013 graduating students of the Queensland College of Art (QCA), Gold Coast Griffith University, establishing a new audience for student work and generating strong employment opportunities for the graduates.


Queensland College of Art Gold Coast

Cover art design Elise McKee

Professional Staff

Staff

Liveworm team

Creative Director Rae Cooper Studio Administrator Sharon Searle Final Year QCA Student Design Team Student pages designed by Roxy Coppen Liveworm Gold Coast Studio G14_2.30 Queensland College of Art Gold Coast campus Griffith University QLD 4222 T +61 7 5552 7262 E goldcoast@liveworm.com.au W livewormgoldcoast.com

Sanctuary Cove Publishing team Publisher Clare E. Urwin Editor Rhonda Oxnam Art Director Sandra Teissl Graphic Designers Saida Anderson & Jacob Ewington Sales Executive Cliff Aylett Business Manager Yvonne Marsden Sanctuary Cove Publishing (SCP) T +61 7 5577 9499 W thecovemagazine.com.au P.O. Box 252 Sanctuary Cove Queensland 4212

No responsibility is accepted by SCP for the accuracy of any statement contained in the text or advertisements. All material appearing in Gold Coast Creative is copyright ©. Views expressed by journalists are not necessarily those of the publisher. Printed by Printcraft.

Anne-Maree Garcia Trudy Jensen Natasha Kershaw Lee Litfin Vince McKillop Sharon Searle Casey Stewart Jason Urech

Academic Staff Hadieh Afshani Bruce Blundell Richard Blundell Earle Bridger Laini Burton Rae Cooper Sean Costain Daniel Della-Bosca Lee Evans Dominique Falla Heather Faulkner Donal Fitzpatrick Megan Harrison Kylie Hicks Elise Hilder Claudio Kirac David Lloyd Chris Mamozelous Brett McAuliffe Kelly McIlvenny Brad Nunn Sally Osborne Amanda O’Sullivan Nasan Pather Dale Patterson Robyn Peacock-Smith Sonya Peters Bill Platz Alejandra Ramirez Vidal Tim Rankin Scott Roberts James Ugarte Margaret Waller Lani Weedon

livewormgc


Contributors Roxy Coppen

Susan Lang-Lemckert

Ruth Dunn

Dr Jennifer Loy

Roxy graduates from Griffith University this year with a Bachelor of Digital Media majoring in Graphic Design. As part of her degree, she helped manage some elements of Gold Coast Creative and worked on the layout and design of the student pages. She’s involved with many creative projects such as her own online publication Raw Ink magazine, her handmade jewellery enterprise Sweet on Buttons and working as the lead graphic designer for Devillain Clothing. Roxy wants to experience all areas of design throughout her career and would love to one day work in a studio with other like minded creatives. roxycoppen.com

Ruth graduated from the University of Queensland with Bachelors of Journalism and Arts (extended major in Art History) in 2012. She has completed a variety of internships at arts and culture publications including Artlines and Map magazine, as well as working on creative projects such as Raw Ink Magazine and writing for SLR Lounge. Ruth currently works as a content writer at a digital marketing agency called Matter Solutions and is keen to explore a variety of contexts in which writing can be used as both an informative and expressive medium.

Dominique Falla

Dominique is a designer/artist, author and teacher. She is a program convener at Griffith University on the Gold Coast and is currently studying for her Doctorate on the subject of Tactile Typography. She creates typographic works using a variety of tactile mediums and combines digital creation with analogue output for exhibition. She is passionate about the ‘designer as auteur’ and has mentored over 200 students through the third year ‘creative entrepreneurs’ program, where graphic design students are encouraged to design their own products and take them to market. dominiquefalla.com

Heather Faulkner

Heather is the convenor of the ePhotojournalism major in the Bachelor of Digital Media. She is a doctoral candidate (documentary photography) and recent transmedia storytelling convert. She is the executive editor of The Argus (theargus.net.au), the online visual journalism magazine produced entirely by students in the ePhotojournalism major. Her documentary research investigates the concepts of belonging, identity and social justice. She is a 20 year veteran of press photography, having worked extensively in Eastern Europe and now, S.E. Asia. heatherfaulkner.com.au

With a lifelong passion for writing and a background as a freelancer and political speechwriter, Susan became a founding contributor to the award-winning Cove magazine. Initially specialising in entertainer profiles, Susan now covers all subjects including human interest features, travel, property and the well-known Iconic Brands series. She has even been known to write about sport and food—two areas she claims to have an interest in but absolutely no natural talent for. Susan’s passion for language extends to editing academic and professional texts, and to teaching the ‘dying art’ of Pittman’s shorthand from beginners to advanced level.

Jennifer runs the 3D Design major, Bachelor of Digital Media, Queensland College of Art, working with 3D Printing and 3D Computer Modelling. She has a PhD in Industrial Design and industry background in furniture design for mass and batch production in Australia and the UK. Jennifer was also a Research Fellow at the Centre for Sustainable Architecture. Jennifer’s programs explore the latest developments in design and making across areas as diverse as problem solving design, medical design applications, commercial design and digital fashion. j.loy@griffith.edu.au

Rhonda Oxnam

The recipient of the Griffith University Journalism Medal, Rhonda graduated with a Bachelor of Journalism in 2005. Since then she has gone on to forge a very successful career in the media and is currently group editor for Sanctuary Cove Publishing, a high-end publishing house whose titles include the award-winning Cove magazine and Gold Coast Creative. With passion for perfection and an eye for detail, Rhonda continues to find inspiration in the written word and for the past five years has nurtured up and coming journalists through the Griffith Mentoring Program and work experience placements.

Sharon Searle

Sharon’s role as administrator for Liveworm, a professional design studio located within the Queensland College of Art, Gold Coast, allows her to explore her creative side while also utilising her exceptional organisational skills. An integral member of the Gold Coast Creative team since its inception, Sharon graduated from a Bachelor of Commerce in 2009 and is the ‘go to’ person for clients, students, academics, and anyone else who crosses the threshold of Liveworm’s cultural hub.


Contents Cultural City 10 Our Gold Coast

QCA Gold Coast Awards for Outstanding Creative Achievement Industry Winners 18 Sacha Beverley 20 Bleach* Festival 22 Kate Campbell 24 Rabbit + Cocoon 26 Nadia Sunde

Alumni Winners 30 Megan Harrison 32 Aurelie Maron 34 Alejandra Ramirez Vidal 36 Camille Santiago 38 Frank Yuan

Student Winners 42 Alyson Baker 44 Vanessa Houle 46 Jason Haggerty 48 Tyler Jackson 50 Yoko Lance


Creative Community 54 Additive Manufacturing 56 LMTDspace 58 Raw Ink Magazine 60 Sanctuary Cove 62 The Design Kids 64 The Golden Sans Project 66 Typism 69 The SEED project 71 The Cove magazine

Industry Spotlight 74 Analogue/Digital 76 Impressworks 78 R&B Creative 80 RelativeCreative 82 Team Kitten 84 TM Photography 86 Verg Advertising

Enterprising Alumni 90 Ashleigh Brennan 92 John Forno 94 Henry Gao 96 Teneille Grace 98 Ella Johnston 100 Tegan Kiri & Jessica Lee 102 Matthew Littlewood 104 Mireille Merlet 106 Matthew Neal

QCA Graduate Showcase 111 3 Dimensional Design 114 Digital Design 116 Fine Art 120 Graphic Design 135 Honours 140 Sponsors & Supporters


culturalcity

1

Our Gold Coast

coming of age as a creative community article by Susan Lang-Lemckert

Like the youngest of a large and high-achieving family, the Gold Coast is coming of age in its own unique and exciting way to be Australia’s greatest coastal city. And just as Australia’s youngest city was born and grew in times and circumstances quite different from its older capital city siblings, the Gold Coast’s cultural scene reflects a modernity and striking quirkiness that sets it apart not only nationally, but around the world. With more than one in four Gold Coasters having been born overseas—and some of the remaining three in four coming from elsewhere in Australia—the city’s cultural blend is more diverse than most. The fact so many of us have relocated to enjoy the Gold Coast’s holiday atmosphere all year round fosters a deep sense of community and a vibrant, constantlyevolving way of life. We’re inspired by lifestyle to create a culture that allows us to relax and enjoy our enviable natural surroundings, every day. There’s nothing quite like a dynamic, fun environment to get the creative juices flowing, and the Gold Coast’s history is packed with successful examples—like bikini pioneer Paula Stafford, Oscar-winning aminatronics whizz John Cox and Elanora band Operator Please, who took out an ARIA for Breakthrough Artist while still aged in their teens. In artistic endeavours as diverse as architecture, design, photography, fashion, music, performance arts and technology,

10

creative individuals have carved out careers and built businesses to combine what they love doing, with a lifestyle they love. From life-fellow of the Australian Institute of Architects and the first Queensland Government Architect Phillip Follent, to founding director of the annual Swell Sculpture Festival Natasha Edwards and renowned artist Claudio Kirac, artistin-residence at the city’s newest creative precinct St Thomas Studio, the Gold Coast has proven to be a fertile environment for excellence and innovation. Riding the current wave of achievement are lighting designer Conrad Johnsson of Yellow Goat Design, 2011 winner of Interior Design magazine’s Best of the Year award, and Jolie Hertzberg, co-director of arts precinct Rabbit + Cocoon who won one of three 2012 British Council Realise Your Dream awards, from more than 650 applicants around Australia. While success of this kind comes about through the hard work of individuals, larger-scale cultural development requires broad-based, long-term, structured planning to optimise the framework in which the city’s artisans nurture their crafts. Enter the City of Gold Coast’s Culture Strategy (2013-2023), designed to steer the Gold Coast through the creative tsunami it’s now experiencing as much of our evolving, yet hidden culture, rises to the surface, and to ensure culture remains a priority as the city expands and changes.


1. Gold Coast skyline 2. Polytoxic courtesy of Bleach* Festival 2013 photography John Gass 3. The Chronicles of Narnia Voyage of the Dawn Treader

culturalcity

2

… the Gold Coast’s cultural scene reflects a modernity and striking quirkiness that sets it apart …

3

11


culturalcity

1

1

Our sights are firmly set on 2018, when we’ll take the world stage by hosting the Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games™—a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to showcase our unique city to a global audience. Despite a flourishing arts and cultural scene, the Gold Coast has developed as a linear city of vibrant villages, and has lacked a defined cultural heart. Until now, with exciting plans to create a dedicated cultural precinct at Evandale, the iconic site of the much-loved Arts Centre Gold Coast, whose tremendous popularity has seen it outgrow its present performance and exhibition spaces after only 25 years. A signature project of the Gold Coast’s transformation into a world-class destination, the cultural precinct will incorporate a New Arts Museum and a Living Arts Centre—collectively providing music, dance, art, new media, educational opportunities and public sculpture. Framed by a landscaped Artscape, the precinct’s public space will also host an extensive program of outdoor activities, and will lead into a pedestrian- and cycle-friendly cultural corridor linking Evandale to Surfers Paradise via the villagelike Chevron Island.

12

The precinct will be digital and interactive, appealing to all ages. As befits a world-class icon, the design of the new cultural precinct is being decided through an international competition that attracted a field of 75 multidisciplinary teams from around the globe, and has been overseen by independent advisers and an eight-member jury. Acclaimed New York City-based architect, academic and author Michael Sorkin brought his wealth of international experience to the jury table, while Mayor Tom Tate ensured the Gold Coast community’s needs and aspirations remained front and centre of deliberations. In June 2013, the jury short-listed three design teams—ARM ARCHITECTURE, CRAB_VOGT_DBI, and NIKKEN SEKKEI— whose visions have been unveiled through the use of models, drawings and animations. Each design team was awarded $250,000 to develop their concepts into outstanding proposals, as anticipation steadily built ahead of the final reveal as to how the winning designer would encapsulate our city’s cultural spirit into what is sure to become an Antipodean ‘must-see’.


1. ATSIAA opening night 2. Skyline view from Evandale Parklands, future Cultural Precinct site 3. Cultural Precinct Competition jury

culturalcity

2

3

… anticipation steadily built ahead of the final reveal as to how the winning designer would encapsulate our city’s cultural spirit into what is sure to become an Antipodean ‘must-see’.

13


culturalcity

1

1

1

Driven by opportunities While we wait for an official cultural heart to take shape, the Gold Coast’s inherent creativity and entrepreneurialism is constantly generating exciting projects. Creativity finds expression organically through individual artists and collaborative projects, through incubators and arts programs, through markets and arts precincts and through an underlying connection to our history, environment and lifestyle. A year-round calendar of events such as The Gold Coast Film Festival, Blues on Broadbeach, the Swell Sculpture Festival, Bleach* Festival and The Gold Coast Art Prize (and exhibition) ensures we always have something to celebrate. Markets and arts precincts like Rabbit + Cocoon are creating places and spaces for culture to thrive, while a number of prestigious educational institutions are refining the skills of emerging artisans—including the Gold Coast Institute of TAFE with its new $30 million creative industries campus, numerous private specialised colleges and Griffith University, which offers Griffith University’s Queensland Conservatorium’s popular music degree and is home to the Queensland College of Art (QCA), Gold Coast. Bond and Southern Cross universities are also nurturing the talent of tomorrow—the potential procession of future artists is seemingly endless. The City of Gold Coast has a long and proud history of supporting development of the city’s creative industries through a range of different initiatives. A two year pilot program called ‘Gold Spaces’ revitalised urban areas by supporting emerging artists in vacant retail spaces, helping to kickstart successful creative businesses while enhancing the premises appeal to prospective tenants. Fashion designers are being incubated through retail space at Pacific Fair Shopping Centre and The Marine Village, Sanctuary Cove and are also being given access to mentoring and industry networks.

14

City of Gold Coast also jointly funds the Queensland Regional Arts Development Fund, supporting emerging enterprises in music, film-making, performing and visual arts and transforming an impressive 3,000 arts and cultural projects from plan to reality every year. The Gold Coast has a long and proud tradition of film and television production. Our city’s diverse range of accessible locations means almost any landscape can be replicated within the region, all within 25 minutes of the internationally recognised Village Roadshow Studios. The studios offer worldclass film production facilities including eight sound stages and three water tanks, with one being the largest purpose-built film water tank in Australia. A comprehensive support network of experienced film service companies is conveniently located on the lot or in the studio surrounds. The city’s Film Gold Coast Investment Attraction Program has assisted with many high profile productions filmed on the Gold Coast including Chronicles of Narnia: Voyage of the Dawn Treader; Peter Pan; The Great Raid and Scooby Doo. So as the Gold Coast comes of age, another exciting phase— of creative upsurge—is set to shape and define the next. With more and more creative individuals and organisations basing their operations in and around the city, a strong sense of synergy and connectedness continues to build, which generates more innovation and investment, and so on ... The city’s often unconventional path to maturity has not been without its critics. But it’s that unorthodox journey that has led to the creative hothouse that now forms such a crucial element of the city’s economy, and is gaining national and global attention. And as for the future – who knows? As always, anything is possible on the Gold Coast. The best is yet to come. brandgoldcoast.com.au


4. Wow – perfect palindrome by Midge Johansen, Swell Sculpture Festival photography Pawell Papis

1. Arts Centre Gold Coast 2. Rabbit + Cocoon 3. Gold Coast City Gallery

culturalcity

2

With more and more creative individuals and organisations basing their operations in and around the city, a strong sense of synergy and connectedness continues to build ‌

3

3

4

15


GCCC ad


QCA Gold Coast Industry Awards for Outstanding Creative Achievement City of Gold Coast recognises the contribution of creative industries in the cultural development of the region.


industryawards

1

2

18

1. Sacha Beverley 2. - 3. Sacha Beverley Art & Design Gallery

“New artists bring fresh ideas and motivation to the arts community.” —Sacha Beverley


industryawards

3

Sacha Beverley Art & Design opening doors article by Susan Lang-Lemckert

“People often come in and ask if this is an exhibition, because the pieces are all so different,” says Sacha Beverley of the artworks showcased in her Southport gallery. “But they’re all mine. I don’t stick to a particular style when I’m creating ... I just like being creative.” But complementing that boundless creativity is a keen business savvy that’s essential for anyone who wants to turn their passion into a career. “When I decided to sell my art, I did a Certificate IV in Small Business Management, because it’s one thing to know about arts stuff, and a whole different thing to turn that into a business,” she says. “That’s been really important. I don’t think I’d have been as successful as I have if I hadn’t done the business course.” While the paintings that figure prominently in Sacha’s gallery are of different styles and themes (“for a while I wanted to paint birds, then I did butterflies, plus some abstracts,” she says), they’re all evocative and uplifting—another element that’s been warmly embraced by clients. “I try to paint things that make people feel good, and to use colours that make people feel good,” she says. “I’ve got a lot of great feedback from clients saying they find the gallery a very positive place to be.” Sacha’s move from selling her works through local markets to running her own gallery was made possible through the Gold Spaces initiative, which allowed her to test the viability of her business venture by opening in a vacant shop at a reduced

rental for a few months. More than 12 months on, Sacha’s still there, her enterprise going from strength to strength as her client base grows. “This is the kind of support artists need to elevate their artistic careers to the next level,” she says. “Artistic momentum is definitely growing on the Gold Coast, and hand-made things are becoming more popular. People often tell me they’re excited to be able to buy something unique that isn’t mass-produced.” While creating gallery pieces on a daily basis, Sacha is also working on a more long-term project—a solo exhibition of paintings documenting construction of the Gold Coast Rapid Transport system, which runs past the gallery’s Scarborough Street front door. Sacha’s exhibition has been helped along by another arts initiative—the Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF), provided jointly by the City of Gold Coast and Arts Queensland. “Programs like the RADF and Gold Spaces are great ways for artists to get more exposure or to get to the next level in their career or business,” she says. “New artists bring fresh ideas and motivation to the arts community. With a growing arts community, lots of good things are starting to happen here. “Now is great time to be a Gold Coast artist, because we’re able to help push that artistic movement forward and gather some more attention for Gold Coast arts. We’re moving towards a new level of sophistication.” sachabeverley.com.au | art@sachabeverley.com.au

19


industryawards

“The Gold Coast is such a wonderfully diverse community, which naturally lends itself to a very unique culture.” —Louise Bezzina

20


industryawards

Bleach* Festival celebrating our surf culture article by Rhonda Oxnam

What inspired the Bleach* Festival? Connecting Southern Gold Coast, an entity of City of Gold Coast, had been talking to the local community for some time about why there wasn't a surf culture festival to celebrate one of the world's most famous beaches. It was then a case of serendipity really as I [Louise Bezzina, Bleach* Festival Director and Executive Producer] was moving to the Gold Coast and given my festival experience I was asked to start the festival and bring it together. I have an arts and culture background so to me it made sense to bring the arts into the forefront of the program as the connection to the surf and the beach worked perfectly. There are so many artists that have a strong connection to the ocean and that connection became the essence of the festival. Where did the name Bleach* come from? I felt that it was really important to give the festival a strong and distinctive name. One of my great friends and colleagues, Heidi Bartholomew, actually came up with the name Bleach* and it was just perfect. It is a play on words, it represents the sun and sand and the beach. It is fun and youthful and that was what I was looking for. Why is it important to nurture cultural understanding and development on the Gold Coast? The Gold Coast is such a wonderfully diverse community, which naturally lends itself to a very unique culture. There is such a growth in the cultural scene and the demand for more arts experiences. What

is so amazing about the Gold Coast is that there really is no city like it anywhere else in Australia. We shouldn't shy away from what the city stands for. I think we need to really embrace it and promote the Gold Coast culture. What type of events make up the Bleach* Festival? Each year we do a series of major contemporary music performances with significant Australian musicians in outdoor and indoor venues. There are a range of visual arts exhibitions presented along the southern Gold Coast in installation and non-traditional venues that are commissioned responding to a theme or the place. How is the Bleach* Festival working to nurture Gold Coast talent and boost tourism? The City of Gold Coast is our major supporter and without their support we would not be able to engage the sheer number of artists that we do. For the 2013 event we employed 471 artists, technicians, filmmakers, musicians and administrators and 293 were from the Gold Coast. This is the largest number of creatives employed for any festival on the Gold Coast. How can young creatives get involved? Make contact with the festival and send in your ideas. There will also be a number of professional development workshops and programs to get involved in. Keep checking the website for more information. bleachfestival.com.au

21


“ … as designers we are all being influenced by this global pond that we live in where influences from all over the world are instantly accessible.” —Kate Campbell

22

Fruits of Paradise Spring/Summer 2013 collection

industryawards


industryawards

Coast by Kate Campbell capturing the essence of the coast article by Rhonda Oxnam

What attracted you to fashion design? I knew from an early age that I wanted to be in fashion. When I was in school I worked in a bridal boutique and completed my Cert 2 in sewing. After leaving school I worked two fashion industry-based jobs while I studied fashion full time. Quite the challenge! This has been extremely beneficial because it was great training for the speed and multitasking that you have to be able to do to run a fashion business successfully! What sets your designs apart? My label is a luxe lifestyle brand specialising in refined boho chic. Although I use expensive fabrics such as silk and silk cotton the aim is always to keep my pieces at an accessible price point. My designs are often loose and flowy and very feminine. I always have the COAST woman in mind when I design. Where she’s going and what she’s doing. She likes to entertain, she likes to travel, she enjoys life. How has being part of the BusinessGC Fashion Incubator helped your career? Hugely! Where do I start? The first huge bonus was the film campaign which they provided for my second season. This would have been too much of an expense to me to have afforded at this early stage. This was an invaluable tool in my marketing campaign for that season. Then there was the Pacific Fair Emerging Designer Store. This has had a profound impact on my label. It has allowed me to sell my clothes in a retail environment where interaction with the public has provided me with valuable feedback on my styles and fit. Working with a diverse group of designers has been

great for sharing knowledge and industry knowhow. What might be one designer’s weakness can be another designer’s strength and visa versa. Where do you get your creative inspiration? My inspiration is not so much sourced as constantly evolving. Travel still plays a large role in informing the look I have in my mind for the COAST woman. The design process starts with an accumulation of ideas over several months which will gradually distil itself into the essence of the new collection. Some ideas might occur while I am designing another range and be saved for exactly the right time to use them. I can be inspired by a still life photograph where I fall in love with a particular colour combination, or by nature or an exotic location, but it always starts with the colour palette. I think as designers we are all being influenced by this global pond that we live in where influences from all over the world are instantly accessible. What is the best thing about being based on the Gold Coast? Being able to start your day with a swim and a walk along the beach. How many people can say that? Also the Gold Coast is such a small but vibrant growing community where people are open to what is new and exciting. New and exciting businesses are popping up all the time which are welcomed and embraced by the local community. coastbykatecampbell.com.au

23


industryawards

“The [Gold] Coast is in a cultural transition, which is really exciting to be a part of.” —Emma Milikins

24


industryawards

Rabbit + Cocoon a collaborative art-space article by Susan Lang-Lemckert

“The [Gold] Coast is in a cultural transition, which is really exciting to be a part of,” says Emma Milikins, one of three local artisans whose passion for all things cultural saw the advent of the Rabbit + Cocoon creative precinct. “There are great new cafés, restaurants, small bars, fashion markets, live music venues as well as artist-run initiatives, mixed in with a beach lifestyle. The Coast is ready to find its own identity!” she says. Like so many of the city’s success stories, Rabbit + Cocoon became a reality through the dedication of a team of Gold Coasters determined to breathe life into their creative vision. And with a collective wealth of arts and cultural experience in fashion, festivals, music, cultural development and business, Rabbit + Cocoon’s three Founding Directors—Emma, Jolie Hertzberg and Mariam Arcilla—had the perfect suite of skills to make it happen.

radio programs from The Shed, which is also located within the Rabbit + Cocoon precinct. The resident artists frequently collaborate with individuals and organisations (both on- and off-site) on arts and culture projects, which spreads the Rabbit + Cocoon reach—and magic—still further. Catering for a wide demographic, the precinct’s activities and events have built a solid cultural foundation and developed a strong network of industry and peer-based contacts keen to see the initiative continue to flourish and expand. A volunteer-driven initiative, Rabbit + Cocoon initially received support from a philanthropist who strongly believed in its potential, and has since been successful in seeking funding for specific projects through the Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF), run jointly through the City of Gold Coast and Arts Queensland.

Their vision—to create a destination for people to actively participate in and experience culture-making, and to promote social inclusion—now provides 2,400 square feet of artistic splendour housing 14 studios where 40 resident artists ply their crafts among a most enthusiastic public.

“I am pretty proud of my 100% success rate with RADF,” says Emma. “This is a reflection of how supportive RADF is for our projects. More artists should talk with the guys at [The City of Gold Coast’s] Cultural Development [section]—they are very open and receptive to new projects.”

How enthusiastic? Well, only two years after its November 2011 launch, Rabbit + Cocoon reaches more than 6,000 patrons every month through its collaborative projects, onsite enterprises and signature events like Miami Marketta Arts Creative and Marketta Street Food. And an even wider, if less visible, audience is reached through Rabbit Radio, an independent cultural radio station that broadcasts more than 25

In providing artists with spaces and opportunities to showcase their works, Rabbit + Cocoon is a key component of the cultural revolution the Gold Coast is currently experiencing. And according to Emma, the changes wrought by that revolution may change not only our economy, but also the overall perception of the Gold Coast by others. rabbitandcocoon.com

25


1

“I find creativity blossoms when there is more than one thing growing in the garden so each of my projects leads into the other.” —Nadia Sunde

2

26

1. Nadia and The Swing Set Photography Hailey Bartholemew 2. Homespun cover artwork 3. Nadia Sunde Photography Dean Agar

industryawards


industryawards

3

Nadia Sunde multi-platform performing artist article by Rhonda Oxnam

Nadia Sunde is one of the Gold Coast’s most versatile performers … a theatre writer, recording artist, cabaret singer, radio personality and travelling ambassador for the region she calls home. “I’d probably describe myself as a multi-platform performing artist,” Nadia explains. “I find creativity blossoms when there is more than one thing growing in the garden so each of my projects leads into the other.” While much of Nadia’s earlier work was based around a younger audience, these days she is a more rounded performer. “I enjoy balancing the different aspects of my career, and my adult contemporary content is now as much a focus as my children’s content,” she saids. One of Nadia’s more recent projects—and one that was very close to her heart—was Nadia Sunde’s Supper Club which she presented at the Arts Centre Gold Coast. “I moved to the Gold Coast when I was 13-years-old and my earliest experiences were on the main stage at the Arts Centre,” she says. “I’ve been treading the boards as a performer ever since so it was nice to be able to present the Supper Club there.” The recipient of a Regional Arts Development Fund, Nadia has toured throughout regional Queensland and feels people

are coming to understand that the Gold Coast is home to high quality theatre artwork. “In the past few years there has been exponential growth in the number of export-quality artists working from the Gold Coast,” she says. “We are no longer a mono-culture … we have a growing cultural community and it’s important that we continue to develop arts that shift the out-dated stereotype about the Coast. “We need to be proud of what exists here and to support networks that allow artists to create new works that will go on to ‘live’ on an international stage.” According to Nadia, collaboration plays an important role in any creative endeavour. “We are all part of a creative ecosystem. At any one of my shows the chain includes the producer, venue operator, lighting technicians, costume and set designers, ticket sellers and the audience and we all have to work together to create a sustainable environment. “Creative growth equates to economic growth and as an independent artist I feel a responsibility to create works that are sustainable and that feed into opportunities for the industry.” nadiasunde.com

27


Michael Zavros Artist

ALUMNI AWARD WINNERS Angie Fielder

Singer, composer, pianist

Griffith University Alumni from the Queensland College of Art, the Queensland Conservatorium, our Film School, the School of Humanities and the School of Education and Professional Studies have been contributing to the quality of people’s lives both in Australia and overseas through their art, music, photography, writing and theatre. Many have gone on to win prestigious awards, to run festivals or manage successful businesses.

Ginny Lowndes

On the Gold Coast, our Alumni are using their skills, knowledge, and passion to make a positive contribution and fulfil the Griffith commitment to give something back through their work.

Film Producer

Katie Noonan

Writer

Peter O’Connor Applied Theatre

If you would like to support a prize, award or scholarship to fund a student to access university education regardless of their personal circumstances, please contact Gillian French on 07 5552 7307 | g.french@griffith.edu.au All donations are tax deductible.

Adam Ferguson Photojournalist

A snapshot of some of Griffith University’s outstanding Alumni Award winners working in creative industries today.

Griffith is proud of all our alumni and encourage them to stay connected so all successes can be celebrated. Please stay connected at griffith.edu.au/stay-connected


QCA Gold Coast Alumni Awards for Outstanding Creative Achievement

QCA industry awards title page

City of Gold Coast recognises the contribution of creative alumni in the cultural development of the region.

29


alumniawards

3

Megan Harrison a passion for fashion and styling Megan Harrison graduated from the Queensland College of Art (QCA), Gold Coast in 2009 with a major in Graphic Design.

interviewing inspiring creatives and sharing a little bit about them and their personal style.

During her studies she was lucky enough to undertake work experience in the Liveworm Gold Coast studio and was later offered a full-time position as the studio’s first paid designer.

“I’m constantly planning or travelling the world, spending the majority of my teaching holidays abroad. I find so much inspiration throughout my travels and everydaylola allows me to share a little insight into my life, experiences and personal style.”

She has also worked part-time in an external design studio and took on the position of Creative Director at Liveworm for six months earlier this year. “I love working with real clients and sharing my knowledge with the students to further their industry experience, in both design and printing, before they graduate,” she says. “I am currently working as a graphic designer and a tutor at QCA and have been for a number of years. I really enjoy seeing the students’ growth and unique creativity over their three years of study.” At the end of 2013 Megan will graduate again from QCA, gaining her Honours with a research project and exegesis focusing on the impact of graphic design skills and visual appeal in personal style blogs. In early 2013, Megan created everydaylola.com, a project which combines her skills as a graphic designer and her evergrowing passion for fashion and styling. “I wanted to create a blog that caters to a range of interests including design, everyday fashion, inspiration, lifestyle, food and travel,” she explains. “Recently, I have also started

30

Megan is also a contributing member of the ‘We Heart Collective’, a group of 14 women inspired by various things they ‘Heart’. It began in 2011, with the ‘We Heart Paper’ exhibition and continues to hold regular exhibitions and gettogethers, which allow them to share their creative outlet. Their next exhibition will be at the 2014 Bleach* Festival. According to Megan, creative industry on the Gold Coast is constantly growing with an increase in the number of exhibitions, markets and networking events. “The Gold Coast may be reasonably small but this means it’s easy to get to know other inspiring local creatives and have the chance to meet and collaborate with them,” she says. “We’ve seen some great local talent from Claudio Kirac’s latest exhibition ‘Love Letters’ at St. Thomas Studio, handmade leather goods by Emily Chamberlain of Marvellous Stationery, so many gorgeous letterpress pieces from Impressworks and the new design conference, ‘Typism’ by Dominique Falla. “It’s great to be able to work and live in a location with great beaches, cafés and creative culture.” everydaylola.com | weheartcollective.com


alumniawards

everydaylola branding and marketing

“It’s great to be able to work and live in a location with great beaches, cafés and creative culture.” —Megan Harrison

31


alumniawards

3

1

Aurelie Maron embarking on a creative career Born in New Caledonia, Aurelie Maron moved to the Gold Coast four years ago to study a Bachelor of Digital Media at Queensland College of Art (QCA), Gold Coast majoring in Graphic Design and minoring in Digital Design. “I’ve always had a passion for Fine Arts and drawing,” Aurelie explains. “Ever since I was able to hold a pencil I started drawing, so I always knew I would have a creative career one day. This is why I started studying design.” During the final months of her degree Aurelie had the chance to work as a casual designer for Liveworm at QCA. After graduating, she started work as a full time graphic designer for TUSK Agency on the Gold Coast, before taking up a position with Copirite in October 2013. During her spare time she also works on some freelance projects, mainly focused on typography. “This area of design has really become a passion and I’ve recently been invited to be part of the creative conference ‘Typism’, along with six other typographers,” Aurelie says. “My favourite design projects are branding, custom logotype, typography, website design and a bit of 3D design. “I have a very specific creative process for all of my projects. It

32

always starts with a lot of thinking, even more than the actual ‘doing’ part. Everything I create has a meaning and a reason to be. “I get really involved with my projects, and they stay in my mind until I have the right idea. I believe this is what makes a real difference.” Aurelie says her time at QCA gave her the opportunity to meet many amazing people sharing the same passion and allowed her to embark on a creative career. “I wouldn’t be doing what I do if I hadn’t met those inspiring and insightful people,” she says. “Designers, artists, students and teachers are collaborating and promoting creativity with real passion and that’s the key for success. I really think that the creative culture of the Gold Coast is growing and moving forward and I’m glad to be part of this community. “Overall, I am really proud of doing what I love most for a living. I thought that having a creative career wouldn’t be good enough, but I’m proof that you can be a creative person and still work hard everyday.” aureliemaron.com


1. Rob Black Final Design 2. Design Montage 3. ‘Typism’ branding and speech

alumniawards

2

3

“Everything I create has a meaning and a reason to be.” —Aurelie Maron

33


alumniawards

3

Alejandra Ramirez Vidal an ethical perspective After graduation Alejandra Ramirez Vidal spent over three months volunteering in Kenya using her passion to create positive change. Anita Kuiper decided to see more of the world and found herself in India. The pair then came together and started maverik studio. “maverik takes on many projects including graphic design, product design and photography,” Alejandra explains. “Our experiences, combined with our contrast in culture, drives us to see design from a unique perspective.” Starting the business in Melbourne, Alejandra and Anita decided to move back to the Gold Coast where the emerging creative scene provided them with the inspiration and creative culture that they see as invaluable to their success and passion. “We design for change,” Alejandra says. “All our products and services are created with the goal to raise funds for those in need. “Through the use of our multi-disciplinary design skills, we focus on the production and promotion of fair-trade products by bridging the gap between item and maker. We believe that handmade goods have a certain uniqueness and can’t be replicated with mass produced goods.”

34

insisting on ethical production both locally and overseas. We believe that objects ‘warmed’ by designers, artists and artisans have a quality like no other. “Part of maverik studio‘s profits are donated to charity via maverik spirit. We do this because we believe in taking small steps towards a healthier and happier future, and we thank you for helping us to make these little steps possible. “Currently, we sponsor a girl in Kenya called Clara, who was abandoned at an orphanage when she was only a few days old. In December we are heading to Colombia, where we will be visiting native indigenous communities to volunteer.” Self confessed ‘design addicts’, Alejandra and Anita find inspiration from a number of sources. “Anything hand-made, crafted and packed full of character, we’re there.
 Anything colourful, playful and raw, we’re drooling.
We can’t get enough.
Constantly absorbing, learning and laughing. “Our customers and clients are so important to us because they contribute to our ability to use design for positive global change,” she says.

The pair’s work practice is both morally and ethically sound, allowing them to have a positive impact on the wider community.

“We live by our philosophy—Designs helping the environment, Products helping communities, Charity helping education.”

“maverik studio supports and promotes fair trade products,

unikko.com.au | maverikstudio.com.au


alumniawards

maverik studio’s Small Change Collection

“Designs helping the environment,
 Products helping communities,
 Charity helping education.” —maverik studio

35


alumniawards

3

1

Camille Santiago blending creativity with versatility Camille Santiago graduated from the Queensland College of Art (QCA), Gold Coast with a Bachelor of Visual Media majoring in Graphic Design in 2010. She currently works as a designer for Brisbane creative agency Flip, as well as a freelance photographer and videographer. “Being part of an agency where we take on larger projects means I’m able to bring all of my creative passions—from photography to design to web to filming—into my job,” Camille explains. “I feel incredibly privileged to work at an agency where that can happen. We all love working with other creative folk and working on ventures for small, local businesses who need a helping hand and we hope to take on more projects like this in the future.” While Camille enjoys all creative endeavours, photography is a particular passion. “I love photographing people, events and life’s little details,” she says. “I find an incredible stillness and beauty in being the quiet observer, watching moments as they play out around me, strangers oblivious to the fact that I’m about to capture them simply going about their lives. “Since developing my style and experimenting with videography, I have been asked to photograph events such as ‘Typism’,

36

Australia’s first-ever typographic creative conference, and film behind-the-scenes and work-in-progress videos for fellow creatives such as The Hungry Workshop, Aurelie Maron and Dominique Falla. “I have also produced two series of portraiture as part of exhibitions with the ‘We Heart Collective’. Being part of the collective has led to some of my favourite projects so far, and has given me the freedom to explore the direction I want to take my photography further.” Being able to work with like-minded people and develop community projects is clearly important to Camille. “I love collaborating with other creatives, and I especially enjoy that my life as a photographer fits in with my life as a designer so well,” she says. “Producing photographic work that has concept, emotion and substance is really important to me, and one of my goals is to use my skills to raise awareness of social, humanitarian and environmental issues. “Apart from producing more documentary-style work I would love nothing more than photographing whilst volunteering and travelling across the globe.” camille-nathania.com


alumniawards

1. Dominique Falla 2. Jesse Nikolic 3. Aurelie Maron 4. Gemma O’Brien 5. Camille Santiago 6. Rachel Aust

3

4

2

6

5

“I find an incredible stillness and beauty in being the quiet observer, watching moments as they play out around me … “ —Camille Santiago

37


alumniawards

3

Frank Yuan a blend of cultures What is your connection with the Queensland College of Art (QCA), Gold Coast? Coming from China to Australia has been an unforgettable experience. Through the creation of branding projects, I have developed an understanding of the differences between these vibrant and contrasting cultures and the ongoing process of discussion during my time at QCA studying my Masters of Arts in Visual Arts. Tell us about your current work and/or creative practice: I believe that, due to the growing global economy, graphic design has been influenced significantly. My projects examine ways to combine Eastern design elements and Western brand strategy to achieve a form of ‘global branding’ which communicates to both cultures. In this way, both locals and foreigners will be able to understand, as well as to promote, the local culture and to attract tourists or foreign investments. It is a current trend and one that I am excited to pursue. What makes your work unique? My work is all illustrative branding, which is partly because I am good at drawing things. Having Chinese culture as part of my background and studying graphic design in Australia for years, my work expresses a feeling of classic Eastern beauty and Western professional design strategy, mixing them in order to achieve a perfect balance. I think this special experience makes my work unique. What are your favourite pieces/projects/experiences so far? The rebranding of Sukin, an Australian organic skin care company, is my favourite project. The symbol I designed for

38

the brand uses China’s Peking Opera mask, combined with the natural ingredients found in the products. The plant patterns are surrounded by the muscle and bones of the face. The fonts are drawn in Chinese handwriting in a way that can be seen emphasised in the letters’ initial and end points. The idea is to give the old fashioned style a new look and modern identity. Therefore, the series of product are able to attract customers from both Eastern and Western cultures. What is your proudest achievement? My proudest achievement is designing the catalogue and DL postcard for artist Richard Blundell’s solo exhibition in my third year of undergraduate study. Through the process of this project, I have gained lots of knowledge outside of the class. I am very proud to see my work being displayed to the public and attaining satisfaction from my client. This was my first real work and the start of my designing career. How do you get your inspiration? I always look at the online folios of other graphic designers such as Behance, Creativeroot and Logodesignlove in order to get inspired. Collecting business cards and printed brochures whenever I visit a new place is one of my hobbies. Thinking and asking are two crucial methods to explore the project and inspire creativity. Do you have any major projects in the pipeline? In the future, I will do a branding of organic skin care and hope to continue doing more global branding work. machinegundesign.com


alumniawards

“My project examines ways to combine Eastern design elements and Western brand strategy to achieve a form of ‘global branding’ which communicates to both cultures.” —Frank Yuan

39


creative design studio • gold coast ++ Creative+concepts ++ Graphic+design ++ Print+&+web+ ++ Social+media ++ Photography+ ++ Image+retouching ++ Branding ++ Illustration

Liveworm Gold Coast+is+staffed+with+a+ collection+of+skilled+multidisciplinary+design+ students,+guided+by+a+highly+experienced++ team+of+industry+professionals.+The+studio+is++ also+a+creative+incubator+for+student+industry+ concepts,+supporting+the+local+business+and+ cultural+community.+ The+studio+opened+its+doors+in+2008+after+ being+converted+from+a+grungy+fine+art+and++ sculpture+workshop+into+a+creative+studio++ and+incubator+space—under+the+wing+of++ the+130+year+old+Queensland+College+of+Art.+

Contact us & stalk our social media

e

goldcoast@liveworm.com.au

p

07 5552 7262 livewormgc livewormgc

f in

Liveworm Gold Coast+designers+are+the+future+ experts+of+their+field.+They+know+what’s+current,+ enjoy+predicting+future+trends+and+utilising+classic+ design+strategies.+ In+the+midst+of+a+new+studio+image+and+direction+ Liveworm Gold Coast+is+working+towards+a+ stronger+position+within+the+evolving+creative+ Gold+Coast+culture.+The+team+of+students+and+ staff+embrace+the+changes+that+are+occurring+ locally+and+globally+and+enjoy+creating+design+ outcomes+that+reflect+this+unique+approach. liveworm.com.au


QCA Gold Coast Student Awards for Outstanding Creative Achievement City of Gold Coast recognises the contribution of creative students in the cultural development of the region.


1

“The purpose was to deconstruct my experience, to encompass the physical and emotional struggle; with the images coming from personal memories.” —Alyson Baker

2

42

1. – 2. Common Thread exhibition pieces Survivor & Mastectomy Memories Photography Lisa Townley 3. Close Connections 2013 Mary Ann Allan (nee Knot) 1909 - 1950

studentawards


studentawards

3

Alyson Baker drawing on personal experiences Having completed her undergraduate degree in Architecture, Alyson Baker moved to the Gold Coast at the end of 1980. Drawing and painting have always been her passion, so after working in architecture then raising a family, she began studying a Bachelor of Digital Media at the Queensland College of Art (QCA), Gold Coast part-time in 2006. For the past five years Alyson Baker has created artwork including memory boxes, textile artworks and a performance art to express the emotional turmoil of her own experience with breast cancer and pay homage to those who have had similar experiences. Close Connections uses the concept of ‘memento mori’ to depict family and extended family members as well as her own personal journey, while Common Thread was a culmination of textile art deconstructing and reconstructing the breast cancer journey. “Close Connections are seven portraits of women in my family who have been diagnosed with breast cancer,” Alyson explains. “The solar plates are exhibited with personal didactics so each individual portrait tells a story, a personal experience, an experience that the collective group has shared.”

The memory boxes unite the individuals as there is a connection through a common understanding, a deep desire to provide awareness and hope for others affected by breast cancer. “Common Thread was a culmination of textile art created as a therapy in my emotional healing,” she says. “The two pivotal artworks Mastectomy Memories and Survivor are bookends to my five-year journey. “The purpose was to deconstruct my experience, to encompass the physical and emotional struggle; with the images coming from personal memories.” During the creation of these works she has liaised with the National Breast Cancer Foundation and has also held these two solo exhibitions on the Gold Coast to raise awareness and funds to support breast cancer charities. Alyson has also created a connection with Young Pink Sisters, a support group for young women. It is through this connection that Alyson’s future direction lays, through her art she aims to advocate on behalf of young women affected by breast cancer. alyson-baker-visual-artist.com

43


studentawards

“I am always ready to embark onto new creative journeys that help me grow as a creative person.” —Vanessa Houle

44

1. Animal Alphabet project 2. Revarie

1


studentawards

2

Vanessa Houle a journey of creativity Canadian graphic designer and illustrator, Vanessa BourassaHoule is a recent graduate from the Queensland College of Art (QCA), Gold Coast with a Bachelor of Digital Media, Graphic Design major.

Alphabet project greatly depicts the work that she does as an illustrator, with the letters eventually being placed on the walls of a daycare centre to create a stimulating environment for the toddlers.

Growing up in a French and English household, on the southshore of Montreal, has given her an insightful approach to that of art, design and culture.

“I enjoy this style of pen and watercolour and being able to incorporate vibrant colours into my work,” she says. “I appreciated working on this project as I felt unrestricted and it gave me the opportunity to experiment with this medium.”

From as early as she can remember she has taken art lessons, ranging from arts and crafts, music, sculpture, drawing, etc. Her past has defined who she is today, as a designer, and where she intends to be in the future. Having acquired a love for the traditional feel for design, she believes that her hands-on approach gives more integrity to her work. Before Australia, Vanessa completed a technical program in Graphic Communications from Champlain College Saint Lambert. She has also interned for Nurun, Montreal as a UX designer. “These past experiences have taught me the essentials of theory and design and given me a certain methodical work practice that I use in my design conceptions through to completion,” she says. As opposed to this disciplined form of design, Vanessa embraces creativity and appreciates original ideas. Her Animal

Vanessa deems her decision to come to Australia and study at Griffith University as her proudest achievement. “Moving 15,000km away from home is not something that everyone experiences in a lifetime and I believe it has helped me grow as a person,” she says. Vanessa chooses to see every day as a new learning avenue that she cherishes and brings across in her art and design. The places she has been, the people she has met, are her inspiration. “The ventures that lie ahead are yet to be determined but I dream of becoming an Art Director and I am open to new opportunities,” she says. “I am always ready to embark onto new creative journeys that help me grow as a creative person.” vanessahoule.com

45


studentawards

“I hope to build a career creating and exhibiting challenging artworks, to continue curating and writing as well as helping to build important platforms for other creatives through artist-run initiatives.” —Jason Haggerty

46


studentawards

Jason Haggerty demystifying digital media Jason Haggerty has recently completed a Bachelor of Digital Media at Queensland College of Art (QCA), Gold Coast majoring in Fine Art and specialising in art theory.

environments on the nature of human interaction and concepts of self, while exploring my own use of online networks through self-portraiture.”

“I have been very lucky in the lecturers and mentors I have studied under,” Jason says. “Daniel Della-Bosca has had an immense impact on my practice with his incredible knowledge of materials and his positive attitude towards very complex processes, while Kylie Hicks has influenced my understanding of what art is, what art can be, and the importance of praxis.

Utilising technology, new medias and open source computer programs, Jason interrogates physical and virtual experience with installations and digital sculptures.

“I owe a lot of my understanding of photographic theory and new media to Ashley Whamond, and Laini Burton introduced me to the concept of the cyborg in the realm of body politics, a concept that has given me an excuse to read science fiction as ‘research’.”

“My art practice on one hand is very erratic, I can move from three dimensional scans, interactive digital projections and video work to large sculptural pieces in the space of a day, while on the other hand it is very focused in that I feel a strong desire for exploration, for new medias and to find new ways to explore concepts.”

Jason’s current body of work utilises elements of study from across his whole degree, reinforcing the versatility available under the umbrella of Digital Media.

For Jason, the near future involves exhibiting work for 2High Festival at the Brisbane Powerhouse, an experimental exhibition at The Walls at Rabbit + Cocoon, a month-long graduate exhibition in the Gold Coast City Gallery and a stint in Melbourne to complete an Honours degree in Fine Art.

“My studies encompassed video-production, three dimensional scans and printing, sound design, motion tracking, vacuum forming, fabrication and air-brushing,” Jason explains. “The result is the culmination and championing of digital platforms that make QCA Gold Coast such a unique institution.

“After my studies, which may be a long way off, I hope to build a career creating and exhibiting challenging artworks, to continue curating and writing as well as helping to build important platforms for other creatives through artist-run initiatives.”

“My research focuses on the impact of images, data and online

jason-haggerty.com

47


studentawards

“I see installation art as the full immersion of the visual senses and a place where the viewer can experience an environment that they wouldn’t or couldn’t experience otherwise.” —Tyler Jackson

48


studentawards

Tyler Jackson exploring human phenomena Having started his career as a graphic designer, Tyler Jackson recently completed a Bachelor of Digital Media majoring in Fine Art at the Queensland College of Art (QCA), Gold Coast.

mainly cities, where they are constantly surrounded and protected by buildings in their field of view. But when given nothing but open space, there is a deep fear of this nothingness.

“I’ve always been attracted to visual media, graphics and the arts and I consider it one of the most fundamental aspects of modern humanity, to be a human without well designed, beautiful surroundings is not acceptable,” Tyler says.

“I’m looking at taking these concepts and making more works to explore human phenomena. This way we can better understand the human experience, the body and what makes us human,” says Tyler. “My mentors at QCA have given me the tools and knowledge to guide and refine my practice and without that I don’t think I would have taken this path, but it has been one that I love and will continue.”

“As an artist I have progressively moved from the static computer-generated media to photography, sculpture and now installation art. “I see installation art as the full immersion of the visual senses and a place where the viewer can experience an environment that they wouldn’t or couldn’t experience otherwise.” Tyler is currently creating an installation for the Gold Coast City Gallery that looks at human phenomena. In particular a spatial phobia that a lot of people have when taken to vast open spaces, most prominently in the outback, where the only point of reference is the horizon of Earth. According to Tyler, it is often tourists that have to endure this agoraphobia when taken on tours. A theory for this phobia revolves around the environment they were brought up in,

Tyler sees the Gold Coast starting to become more mature in its arts culture and feels that in the next few years, with proper planning, it will become a major hot spot for artists and designers. “As the cultural precinct and other plans start, the Gold Coast will be crying out for more artists and designers,” he says. “I started Fine Art at QCA as I see the arts going in a strong direction. “The Gold Coast, and Australia in general, desperately needs to keep a strong artistic presence, as this drives community engagement which leads to less stress in communities and more growth in local business. tjvisualdesign.com

49


studentawards

“My current research project is about death and funerals, which includes investigating taboos, denial of death and stigma surrounding the business of funerals.” —Yoko Lance

2

50

3

1. ‘Captain Eddy’ image 2–3. ‘Transient’ images 4. ‘Captain Eddy’ image

1


studentawards

4

Yoko Lance social-documentary and multimedia Yoko Lance grew up in Tokyo and started her career as a writer for various magazines and books in Japan. She later migrated to Australia and decided to extend her career as a photojournalist.

“My current research project is about death and funerals, which includes investigating taboos, denial of death and stigma surrounding the business of funerals.”

Yoko completed a Bachelor of Communication at Griffith University on the Gold Coast in 2012, with majors in Communication & Media Studies and News & Magazine Photography.

“Entitled, ‘For Grief’, this social-documentary multimedia project focuses on three funeral directors on the Gold Coast, Burpengary and Stapylton,” she says. “The exhibition will take place at the Arts Centre Gold Coast from 1 November to 1 December 2013.”

Her multimedia piece, ‘Captain Eddy’, was created during her undergraduate studies and was selected for the exhibition at the Queensland Centre for Photography (QCP) in Brisbane from July to August 2013, and another work ‘Transient’ has been selected for an upcoming exhibition from May to June 2014. Other achievements include an involvement with the online photojournalism publication, The Argus as a Managing Editor in 2012, Griffith Award for Academic Excellence 2011 2012, being a member of invitation-only organisation, Golden Key International Honours Society, and a completion of an internship with the local newspaper, The Gold Coast Bulletin. Yoko is currently studying a Bachelor of Digital Media with Honours in ePhotojournalism at Queensland College of Art (QCA), Gold Coast, Griffith University.

Images from the ‘For Grief’ project were exhibited in the ‘A Book About Death, Australia’ exhibition at the Tweed River Art Gallery in 2013. The proud mother of three daughters, Yoko also works as a photojournalist for the Nichigo Press, the largest circulating Japanese newspaper published in Australia, and freelances for select clients. She has interviewed and photographed notable people throughout her career including teenage survivors of the Japan 3/11 Tsunami, Consulate-Generals of Japan, business experts, actors and sports celebrities. yokolance.com.au

51



Creative Community The cultural and creative development of the Gold Coast has resulted in a growing sense of community.


creativecommunity

1

1

Additive Manufacturing

3D printing and the creative industries article by Dr Jennifer Loy

Time magazine named the Escapism dress, by Dutch designer Iris Van Herpen, one of the 50 best inventions of 2011. It is not often that a fashion designer gets that kind of accolade, much less a recent graduate in her early twenties. What makes this dress different is that it is 3D printed. Made from a form of nylon, it has been modelled on computer—quite a feat, and one that Iris did not take on herself—and although it looks sculptural, it is surprisingly springy to the touch because of the mesh design. Since 2011, 3D Printing has had a dramatic effect on all aspects of design and production. Not only do products now come in a range of high-end materials, they also come out fully assembled. 3D Printing, technically called ‘additive manufacturing’, builds up the objects in layers within a support material (powder or printed scaffold), and this means that individual moving parts of an object can be built into the piece and come out fully working. The Bloom Lamp by Patrick Jouin (shown opposite), has over 70 connections that allow it to open and shut. It was printed in one piece—pulled out of the supporting powder fully assembled. The most basic form of additive manufacturing is called Fused Deposition Modelling (FDM). Think of this like a glue gun, with molten plastic extruded from a heated nozzle as the printer ‘draws’ the object up in layers. Each layer fuses to the last. To support overhangs and windows in the build this method prints a supporting scaffold with the object. In low cost printers, this scaffold will be the same material as the object and in higher cost printers there will be a second nozzle to print a soluble scaffold.

54

Fused Deposition Modellers are now available as desktop printers, costing around $1,600 in Australia in 2013. These are the most basic version of the technology but great to learn on. For Gold Coast creatives, 3D Printing is an empowering tool. Without the need to build an expensive mold, individual designs and artworks can be made, objects customised to the site or client, and materials previously out of reach now available. Designers can offer their own work online without having to convince a large manufacturer of its viability. They can design for niche markets instead of having to create bland objects that appeal to a broad market just to justify the cost of the mold and the quantity needed to be sold from that mold to recoup its cost. This is not a ‘push button’ technology. Like all production methods, designers and artists need to work within the constraints and opportunities of the making process. The internal complexity of an object like the Quin Lamp by Bathsheba Grossman still has to be developed through design and a sophisticated understanding of 3D digital modelling using computer software, but for the beginner, not only is the introductory software becoming easier to use, there are also touch screen computers where virtual clay can be ‘sculpted’ into form. 3D Printing is developing fast. In the Bachelor of Digital Media program at Queensland College of Art (QCA), Gold Coast 3Dimensional Design students are now learning 3D Printing as their first production technology, and ‘digital making’ is integral to each level of learning. The future is here. The future is now. It is an exciting time for Gold Coast creatives. j.loy@griffith.edu.au


creativecommunity

1. Quin Lamp 2. Escapism dress—front view 3. The Bloom Lamp—open & closed

1

Like all production methods, designers and artists need to work within the constraints and opportunities of the making process.

3

2

55


creativecommunity

LMTDspace

showcasing emerging artists article by Dominique Falla

From humble beginnings, with just five artists, a blog and the intention to build friendships and facilitate a space to write about art, the LMTDspace collective now boasts 54 members and is still growing. Founded by past and present students of the Queensland College of Art (QCA), Gold Coast, with three of the founders currently still studying, the LMTDspace collective launched in early 2011 at the Rabbit + Cocoon creative precinct. Since then it has continued to be involved in numerous events and exhibitions in and around the Gold Coast. Although some members are interstate, LMTDspace supports contributions from artists all over Australia. The collective is jointly operated by artists based in most of Australia’s major cities and showcases young, emerging artists who historically have few opportunities to exhibit, helping them get their art into exhibitions and events around Australia. They also promote young artists and events via the LMTDspace blog and website. “Essentially our mission is to unite artists within Australia by hosting exhibitions with galleries and other spaces, connecting you while providing information on upcoming events in your city and bringing Australia’s best hidden and emerging artists into the spotlight,” explains Director Chris McKenzie.

56

Over recent years, the art scene on the Gold Coast has grown rapidly and so has the collective. Since its inception, LMTDspace has hosted several major exhibitions. The ambitions of LMTDspace are high and Chris feels their next steps will require the support of the general public, plus State and Local Governments. LMTDspace is an artist-run collective that not only helps promote its artists, but mentors them into successful careers. “We understand as emerging artists how daunting it is trying to promote yourself, connect with others, and secure exhibition space,” says Chris. Knowledge-sharing is an important feature of the collective community, as well as connecting with other creative hubs and communities, such as Rabbit + Cocoon. “We always love getting to work with the amazing talents at Rabbit + Cocoon multi-art hub because each time we learn something new,” Chris insists. There are several LMTDspace projects in the pipeline for later in the year, including exhibitions with a number of Brisbane and Gold Coast galleries. Chris recommends connecting with the collective via their website or blog, and extends a warm invitation to any galleries wanting to work with them. lmtdspace.com.au


creativecommunity

“We understand as emerging artists how daunting it is trying to promote yourself, connect with others, and secure exhibition space.” —Chris McKenzie

57


creativecommunity

1 1

Raw Ink Magazine a splash of creative ink article by Ruth Dunn

It was August 2011 when three young creatives came together and saw the need to form a local arts-focused magazine. One month later the very first Raw Ink Magazine— concocted from a wicked combination of passion, creativity and determination—was launched. Raw Ink Magazine is an online monthly publication that is made freely accessible to everyone and covers all things creative. Whether it is art, music, theatre, dance, design or crafts, the Raw Ink trio make it their business to feature local well known creatives as well as up-and-coming talent. “The two key foundations of Raw Ink Magazine are supporting local creatives and giving people something accessible, interesting and inspiring to read,” says Liana, journalist at Raw Ink. After looking at the available arts focused media outlets in the local area, Roxy Coppen, Ruth Dunn and Liana Turner found there simply weren’t enough media platforms that showcased creative events and people, so they decided to do something about it. Since 2011, Raw Ink has established itself as an important platform for the Brisbane, Tweed Heads and Gold Coast creative communities. The team gives talented local artists, designers, musicians and performers support through media coverage, and provides readers with fascinating material to enjoy. In the short two years that they have been writing and designing, Raw Ink has released 24 issues with over 2,000 readers for each. They have interviewed creatives such as Ben Quilty, Katie Noonan, Fintan Magee, Yayoi Kusama, Blue Juice,

58

Shida, The Medics, and Wes Carr. The team has also covered events such as Woodford Folk Festival, The Surfer’s Paradise Festival, Splendour in the Grass, Semi-Permanent and the Alice in Wonderland ballet. “We’ve grown so fast in such a short time—so many high profile creatives have found us and love what we do. I was honoured to be asked to be a guest speaker for the design students at the Gold Coast Institute of TAFE,” says Roxy, a graphic design student at Queensland College of Art (QCA), Gold Coast. Raw Ink has gained most of its support through social media outlets such as Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Their free advertising policy, to those who they deem as deserving, has also attracted many people to the publication. One of the signature pieces produced in Raw Ink was Ruth’s ‘Hide ‘n’ Seek Project’, a series of articles she wrote for a year on different street artists in Brisbane. The articles attracted an ongoing audience and were well known in Brisbane’s artistic community. The driving force behind Raw Ink is a love of what they do; Roxy, Liana and Ruth advertise for free and most importantly make Raw Ink available free of charge so that anyone can enjoy it. They hope to continue to expand and one day build Raw Ink into a sustainable creative business venture once they have finished studying. rawinkmagazine.com | facebook.com/rawinkmagazine


1. Raw Ink Magazine girls and covers 2. Ben Quilty 3. Yayoi Kusama copyright Yayoi Kusama courtesy of Ota Fine Arts, Tokyo 4. Brisbane Best Fest

creativecommunity

“We’ve grown so fast in such a short time—so many high profile creatives have found us and love what we do.” —Roxy Coppen

2

3

4

59


creativecommunity

Sanctuary Cove brand Sanctuary Cove–25 years in the making Twenty-five years ago, Sanctuary Cove changed the residential property landscape in Australia with the creation of a lifestyle community that would go on to become the nation’s leading and most successful masterplanned estate.

All elements of Sanctuary Cove, including its calendar of events, media profile and public image, work together to create a lifestyle-centric image with the ultimate goal of achieving land sales.

Today, the A$2 billion Sanctuary Cove is a brand unto itself— continuing to evolve and innovate to retain its premier position on the global stage.

Sanctuary Cove General Manager of Sales, John Hughes, says comprehensive and wide-reaching marketing is crucial to selling land in the estate.

Brand Sanctuary Cove is driven by the innovation of its owner, Mulpha Australia Limited, which acquired the community in 2002. This marked a turning point for the community and a new era of Sanctuary Cove.

“When we’re selling land at Sanctuary Cove, we aren’t just selling a block of dirt or even a house,” John says. “We’re selling a lifestyle, a brand, a community and a way of life that is fundamentally different to anything else available in the country.

Arguably, much of Sanctuary Cove’s success can be attributed to brand premium. “Lifestyle is the foundation of Sanctuary Cove and this is reflected in our holistic approach to the community’s image, growth and development,” explains Keith Allardice, Mulpha Sanctuary Cove Executive General Manager. Behind the scenes, a dedicated team of creative minds work on continuing to grow Sanctuary Cove’s image as it meets the demands and expectations of an increasingly competitive marketplace. The Cove’s internal marketing team oversees the cohesion of all aspects of brand Sanctuary Cove—from events, advertising, public relations, brand endorsement and digital marketing to onsite branding and village tenants.

60

“Since Mulpha’s ownership of the estate we have witnessed a shift in the resident demographic that has resulted in a growing number of younger families and professional couples now calling Sanctuary Cove home. “That is in part due to the diversification of development stock, but also Mulpha’s investment into the community and its brand positioning.” As Sanctuary Cove closes the door on its first 25 years, another opens to its next quarter century—what challenges and opportunities that will present, nobody knows. But one thing is certain; Sanctuary Cove is a canvas of many artists, with the best yet to come ... sanctuarycove.com


creativecommunity

Sanctuary Cove is a canvas of many artists, with the best yet to come...

61


creativecommunity

1

The Design Kids

linking design students with industry article by Dominique Falla

In March this year, Frankie Ratford dropped by the Queensland College of Art (QCA), Gold Coast to give the first of what would become over thirty guest lectures. Since then, she has spent the past five months touring around the country in The Design Kids Travelling Design Van visiting as many design colleges as she could manage, flying back to Brisbane once a week to keep other teaching commitments. This crazy schedule is clearly driven by Frankie’s passion to build The Design Kids (TDK) into the premiere platform for linking design students with industry in as many exciting ways as she can manage. Spending a month at each city: Brisbane (March), Sydney (April), Melbourne (May), Adelaide (June) and Perth (July), Frankie’s mission was to speak directly to the students at the coal face about the benefits of TDK, giving folio workshops, running competitions and collaborating with local business to create more of a design community between students and industry in each city. Over the past four years, TDK has grown very organically into a platform for design students to get directly involved with the industry, and bridge the gap for when they graduate. The current website provides a resource to discover the design industry, and is a point of contact to get involved. A new website was launched in October and promises to be bigger and better.

62

During her engaging lectures, UK-born Frankie reveals her personal journey from designer to TDK and all of the mentors she has collected along the way. A design position at the Sydney studio Frost* Design, under design legend Vince Frost, developed Frankie’s first mentorship. Since then she would include Ben Johnston (JosephMark), Corrie Anderson (Shillington College), Lulu Ruttley (Billy Blue), and Kevin Finn (Sum Of) to be guiding her life right now. Quite an impressive lineup, and this list partly explains why TDK is so successful— the networking TDK facilitates for many students comes from Frankie’s own networks, built up the hard way. One of the most successful TDK projects to date has been a series of THREESOME collaborative exhibitions. The premise was that students, graduates and industry professionals all collaborate in groups of three on posters which combine three words. The posters are then posted around Australia’s major cities in a virtual treasure hunt, facilitated by Instagram tagging. “We were stoked to be able to get people out of their normal comfort zones … building on the community in each city and pushing the boundary of what qualifies as an exhibition at the same time,” Frankie explains. Students can connect with TDK via the website. thedesignkids.com.au


creativecommunity

2

1. Frankie’s Van 2. The Design Kids website 3. Frankie’s Desk

“We were stoked to be able to get people out of their normal comfort zones … building on the community in each city and pushing the boundary of what qualifies as an exhibition at the same time.” —Frankie Ratford

3

63


creativecommunity

1

The Golden Sans Project exploring the identity of the gold coast article by Zoe Bruce

‘The Golden Sans Project’ is a documentation of the Gold Coast’s residential and urban signage and explores the region’s place-making through the lens of typography and sign-art. Creator Andrew Suggit documents the Gold Coast’s identity through a visual medium, which he feels is accessible to all. “From the city to the shoreline and from Labrador to Coolangatta, I take photos of signage and let the images tell the story,” he explains. With small pockets of creative pioneers emerging and shaping the future image of the Gold Coast, Andrew sees the importance in understanding the origins of the city’s image. “As an Art Director, I have a natural interest in typographic design, and within the signage I see trends and styles which hint to how the area’s identity came to be.” Andrew has walked the Gold Coast’s urban and suburban streets; he has made his way from the Southern esplanades through to the Northern, and he has determined a visual identity for the city. Andrew describes the dated, worn and decaying signs as ‘charming and culturally true’, and he intends for ‘The Golden Sans Project’ to depict an image of the city which is an honest reflection of the landscape and the people who inhabit it. “I have spoken to residents and business owners who love their home, their suburb and their city. We have a heritage and history all of our own, and one which is a wide step away from

64

the ‘plastic fantastic’ and ‘glitter strip’ persona, for which we are most commonly known,” Andrew continues. Upon review of Andrew’s images, the typographic treatments present a distinct theme and an enticing vision. The photos themselves act as a porthole into the Gold Coast’s past and the identity of the region. There’s a certain consistency in the energetic italics; the playful kicks in the fonts; the sea-worn and rusted metal word marks, and in the hotel and motel names themselves, ‘Sunny Surf’, ‘Sea Dip’, and ‘Glistening Waters’, to name a few. The subtle beauty in the project is that the signage inspires an image of the Gold Coast which people aren’t accustomed to seeing, an unexpected charm. ‘The Golden Sans Project’ is rapidly gaining momentum and continues to capture the attention of creatives as well as the wider community. Director of Tell Creative and project follower, Gary Schmidt is impressed by Andrew’s images. “There’s a timeless honesty and earnest quality to these, that’s lacking today,” he says. Building on his successes to date, both local and national exhibitions are currently in the works for 2014 and 2015. The solo show is appropriately planned to premiere on the Gold Coast at St Thomas Studio, as a part of the 2014 Bleach* Festival. In the meantime, you can explore the project online or join the conversation, on Instagram and Facebook by searching for ‘The Golden Sans Project’. goldensans.com.au


creativecommunity

2

1. Golden Sans brand 2. Pink Poodle 3. Sea Dip 4. Solano

“From the city to the shoreline and from Labrador to Coolangatta, I take photos of signage and let the images tell the story.” —Andrew Suggit

3

4

65


creativecommunity

Typism

focusing on typography article by Sharon Searle

The first ever Australian conference to focus purely on typography was held on the Gold Coast in September this year. ‘Typism’ saw three interstate and four local Gold Coast speakers come together and talk about their work to an enthusiastic audience of over 300 people. The conference was an initiative of Queensland College of Art (QCA) program convener Dominique Falla, who is currently completing doctoral studies in typography. “There are plenty of design conferences in Australia, but none of them focus specifically on typography,” Dominique explains. “Luke Lucas, Seb Lester and Jessica Hische have all spoken at conferences in this country but for my type-mad students, one typographer amongst seven or eight other creatives just isn’t enough.” For the uneducated among us, the term ‘typography’ was previously used to describe the art of arranging letterforms for print, however, the term has broadened in recent years to encompass all forms of calligraphy, hand lettering and typeface design. The conference was held in the BCC Cinemas at Pacific Fair, which meant attendees had the benefit of a large, state-ofthe-art digital projection screen, comfortable seats and of course, popcorn! “I know my audience,” says Dominique. “If you’re as type obsessed as I am, you’ll do whatever it takes to see a whole day of people talking about beautiful typography.” One of the youngest speakers at the conference, Aurelie Maron, is a QCA alumni and only graduated last year. Aurelie

66

showed some of her student projects, mainly chalk pieces, which proved extremely popular, both on the Internet and with clients on and around the Gold Coast. Many students in attendance found this particularly inspiring as Aurelie is a living embodiment of just what it is possible to achieve in such a short amount of time. There was also the opportunity for QCA students to be involved with the conference as student partners who helped out on the day. QCA alumni Camille Nathania was the official event photographer, capturing the audience and presenters alike. ‘Typism’ also facilitated master classes, with interstate speakers Bobby Haiqalsyah, Wayne Thompson and Gemma O’Brien showing eager students of all ages how to use brush pens, coffee, paint and the computer to create beautiful pieces of custom typography. ‘Goodie bags’ containing note books and pencils and various social media competitions encouraged conference attendees to draw on the day. ‘Typism’ was a celebration of the best Australia has to offer and, as a regional event, was remarkably successful. In conjunction with the Australian conference, there was a call out made to typographers all over the world to contribute their work to a ‘Typism’ book. The response was overwhelming, with 196 world-class pieces being published in a companion volume in October. Unsurprisingly, there are plans for a second ‘Typism’ event in early 2015. Visit the website if you want to be kept in the loop about upcoming master classes, or to purchase a copy of the book. typism.com.au


creativecommunity

“If you’re as type obsessed as I am, you’ll do whatever it takes to see a whole day of people talking about beautiful typography.” —Dominique Falla

67


EXTRAORDINARY HOTELS WHERE AN ECLECTIC MIX OF DESIGN AND ART COME TO LIFE. The QT Hotels and Resorts brand, which launched in 2011 with the opening of QT Gold Coast, now offers hotels in Sydney, Port Douglas and Falls Creek with many more properties to open in the coming years. Renowned for their design quirk, progressive hospitality philosophy and “bringing the fun back to Five Star”, each QT Hotel & Resort has been specifically curated to align with the unique fabric of its destination. Discover more at qthotels.com.au


creativecommunity

The SEED concept provides a fresh take on the current state of the industry ‌

The SEED project nurturing new musical talent The SEED project was born from a collaboration between Griffith University’s Queensland Conservatorium (QCGU), Film School, Queensland College of Art and Griffith Enterprise and allows students to commercialise their music to an online audience and generate revenue through royalties. Taking the top tracks from Bachelor of Popular Music students each year, SEED Volume Two is now being promoted and sold online through major online digital stores including iTunes and Amazon, and can also be streamed through Spotify. SEED Volume One is also available. SEED Volume Two was launched with a free public concert at QPAC featuring five bands from a range of popular music genres. This launch was the first of a series of nine outdoor concerts at QPAC which were held on a Friday evening, with each promoting different artists from SEED Volumes One and Two. These concerts, as well as pre-launch industry events at QCGU Southbank and the Brisbane Powerhouse, have attracted a significant following and resulted in valuable media exposure and industry opportunities for many of the SEED artists.

The album artwork and associated branding, as well as the supporting marketing collateral, was created by the QCA through Liveworm Gold Coast. The top two acts from the SEED project were also provided with the opportunity to create music videos through the Griffith Film School. The SEED concept provides a fresh take on the current state of the industry by offering Bachelor of Popular Music students an alternative to help them become independent artists who can promote themselves. It also provides them with the knowledge to claim their royalties and experience what selling their songs is all about. SEED will continue to grow and become a great tool for students to connect with the music industry. It offers them a head start in their careers through industry support for the project, which will only continue to grow as we move toward Volume Three. griffith.edu/music/popular-music

69


ADFAS $25,000 A boost for Gold Coast art students A local Arts Society on the Gold Coast “blown away” by the quality of education being offered by Queensland College of Art, Griffith University this year handed over an endowment of $25,000 to enable the best and brightest students to further their career prospects. This marks the largest community contribution for the Australian Decorative and Fine Arts Societies (ADFAS) Gold Coast and will be awarded in $2,000 increments to one student each year for use towards an Honours year of study. ADFAS Gold Coast Chair, Ann Dean, said the decision was an easy one. “Seeing the incredible scope of disciplines undertaken on campus simply blew us away. From 3D printing, to fine art, photography and digital design – the only thing equally as inspiring was the level of enthusiasm we encountered from the students and staff,” she said. “Being able to support one of Australia’s longest running art institutions and the incredible host of talent it produces perfectly aligns with our aim to advance and preserve cultural and artistic heritage on the Gold Coast.” The new partnership is one that establishes long term support for the thriving local arts scene -– an area too often neglected according to the QCA’s Deputy Director, Donal Fitzpatrick.

“During times of financial constriction the arts are usually one of the first areas to be impacted, so this demonstrable investment in the future of the Gold Coast arts from ADFAS is tremendous,” he said. “An Honours year of study affords young artists the chance to hone their individual talents, yet it is not always a feasible option after three years as an undergraduate student. An artist or designer will have to weigh up whether they can support themselves financially through an additional year of study and research. “This award will open up this opportunity with funds to be used as the winning artist sees fit to support their honours study– whether that is to purchase equipment, materials or technology, host an exhibition locally or travel overseas to extend their network of contacts. “Following such a successful year for our alumni – with three named as finalists in the Archibald Prize – it couldn’t have come at a better time to allow the next crop of emerging artists to reach similar heights of success,” he said. ADFAS is a national group of 34 societies that offer their members a series of informative and entertaining monthly illustrated lectures and workshops. The Gold Coast Society boasts 264 members and is committed to proactive support of students in our community.


creativecommunity

The Cove magazine has grown into a leading lifestyle publication with an enviable reputation for quality, integrity and style.

AU GUS T | SEP T EM BER 2013

INTERVIEW

a contemporary sofa or luxury Mauritius holiday

LEONARDO DICAPRIO

9

771837

559009

FURNITURE | DESIGN ARCHITECTURE | STYLING

WINTER EDITION ISSUE THIRT Y EIGHT AUGUST | SEPTEMBER 2013

The Cove magazine a reputation for excellence Now in its eighth year of production, the Cove magazine has grown into a leading lifestyle publication with an enviable reputation for quality, integrity and style. Developed by Sanctuary Cove Publishing, a high-end publishing house whose creative team is also responsible for producing Gold Coast Creative, each edition epitomises strong production values, enlightening editorial content and innovative ideas. Inside, the award-winning magazine stays true to its ‘lifestyle’ heritage, with articles on a diverse range of subjects including celebrity profiles, coverage of regional events and personalised travel experiences. Stories on food, wine, motoring, beauty and fashion round out a well-balanced editorial experience. High-end advertisers including Rolls Royce, Calleija Jewellers, Montblanc, Rolex and Aston Martin continue to support the magazine, with many new clients coming on board to take advantage of Cove’s targeted distribution. As Cove’s reputation for excellence continues to grow, its

distribution channels are also expanding. As well as being sold at select retailers both nationally and internationally, Cove can now be found in-room at a number of prestigious hotels including Palazzo Versace and the Stamford Plaza Brisbane and is carried in QANTAS and Virgin lounges throughout Australia. Cove was also chosen as the preferred media partner for the Brickworks UP LATE with Cove magazine event, an evening of entertainment and experiences which showcased the unique lifestyle precinct to a wider retail audience. Sanctuary Cove Publishing’s Group Editor Rhonda Oxnam graduated with a Bachelor of Journalism from Griffith University in 2005 and has been an integral member of the Cove team since its inception. In addition, for the past five years Rhonda has nurtured up and coming journalists through the Griffith Mentoring Program and work experience placements. thecovemagazine.com.au

71


industryspotlight


industryspotlight

Industry Spotlight Forging a successful career in the creative arts industry.


industryspotlight

“My career is turning into a major adventure and I hope to share it with as many people as possible!” —Matthew Haynes

74


industryspotlight

Analogue/Digital a catalyst for creativity article by Roxy Coppen

Founded by Matthew Haynes, Analogue/Digital has grown from a one-day conference to an expanding community of masterclasses, celebratory events, two-day conferences and a week of creative craziness. Although Matthew calls the Sunshine Coast home, he’s finding himself on the road more and more as his career as a designer and conference curator expands. He is the lead designer for lmox.com.au, an agency that has been the backbone of Analogue/Digital in regard to design and strategies. “My career is turning into a major adventure and I hope to share it with as many people as possible!” Matthew claims. Analogue/Digital is an event that helps students understand the ways and means of building a career in the creative industry through the stories of some of the world’s best artists and designers. Students and industry professionals alike come together to share their stories, learn and be inspired by the creative passions of others.

The conference has been held in many places around Australia— Maroochydore on the Sunshine Coast, Robina on the Gold Coast and this year in Brisbane and Adelaide. As well as having many mentors throughout his career, Matthew has learnt a great deal on the steep track of business success from Analogue/Digital and LMOX. He claims to have risked everything on hunches and dreams and has been fortunate enough to come out ‘trumps’. According to Matthew, working with Analogue/Digital gives him the creative opportunity to take risks that he normally couldn’t take with clients. Through these risks he has learnt that being a designer requires you to understand people and their behaviours, culture and expectations, lessons he feels he could not have learned through working with more conservative clients. Analogue/Digital plans to return to its regional roots soon and serve as the catalyst for creative students nationwide to learn from the world’s best. analoguedigital.com.au

75


1

“If people want to pay for print, they want something authentic—graphic designers and creative people go crazy for it.” —Nolan Giles

2

31. Watercolour 2. Pixel 3. Endless Summer 1. Pull out my insides.

76

1. Crash Too Hard 2. Horizon Byron Bay Business card 3. Heidelberg press 4. Impressworks Team

industryspotlight


industryspotlight

4

Impressworks

resurrecting the craft of letterpress article by Dominique Falla

Impressworks is a letterpress printing business based in West Burleigh, dedicated to bringing the creative work of local designers to life through a traditional form of printing. While letterpress itself originated hundreds of years ago there has been a recent resurgence in the craft due to the rich tactile nature of the impression and the result that is simply incomparable to modern printing techniques. “If people want to pay for print, they want something authentic—graphic designers and creative people go crazy for it,” explains Impressworks Marketing Director Nolan Giles. Impressworks’ beautiful 1963 Heidelberg Windmill and 1929 Chandler & Price presses had been bought a few years before the company’s launch. Originally they were on display as part of the Designworks private training college but, at that stage, were not operational. Designworks apprentice trainer Duncan Marsden had been itching to get the machines refurbished, but he was unaware of the remarkable resurgence in the craft among the design community. Nolan previously worked as a journalist in Sydney and had come across a company called The Distillery, driven by a passionate graphic designer called Nathan Leong. In the year that Nolan had known Nathan, he watched him pilot his company to rapid success, producing impressive work for many top Sydney design agencies.

Nolan could see this business model working in Queensland, and he knew that Duncan had the expertise to get the vintage machines back into top working order. They put together a launch event in November 2012 to let the Gold Coast creative community know what Impressworks were up to, and they haven’t stopped printing since. “Duncan has a command of the press like nobody I have ever seen and this allows us to really push the boundaries with the craft,” he says. Emma McKimmie, Australia’s only letterpress printing apprentice, is currently working with Duncan in production. Together they produce quality, handcrafted prints featuring detailed, indented impressions. The presses come from a time when machinery was built to last, and when used in combination with the finest cotton stocks, the results are still superb. In keeping with the traditional aspects of the letterpress print-form, Impressworks takes their inspiration from the Arts & Crafts movement of the late nineteenth century. This movement aimed to bring about a resurgence in craftsmanship and attention-to-detail in a time of industrialisation and mass-production. “Today’s print consumers are faced with similar adversities, and for their product to stand out in an increasingly digital age, it must be a truly special, hand-crafted piece,” Nolan explains. impressworks.com.au

77


industryspotlight

… the sharp-eyed reader will also spot that RandB is an anagram of ‘brand’.

2

78

1 & 4. Doctor Who Home page 2. ADG Styleguide 3. Soundlounge Website

1


industryspotlight

3

4

R&B Creative focus on brand article by Dominique Falla

Located in Burleigh Heads, R&B Creative is a creative agency of around ten people. Brand focused, with the capability to offer strategic campaigns and collateral through print, digital, environment, packaging and display, the agency is proving it’s possible to work on global projects whilst remaining local. Along with the creative agency, founder Rob Bare also started the live music venue, Soundlounge, in Currumbin almost ten years ago. Rob graduated from Griffith University with a degree in Marketing and Management and worked in his father’s business while planning the agency. To keep costs down, Rob originally lived and worked in a commercial space in West Burleigh, which was his home and studio for six years. It was then that Rob’s sister, Bel, a Creative Director in Sydney at the time, moved back to the coast and they joined forces to create R&B Creative in 2000. Apart from the reference to their first names, the sharp-eyed reader will also spot that RandB is an anagram of ‘brand’, which was the pair’s focus right from the beginning. Having already spent a decade as a creative in Sydney, Bel was the perfect mentor for Rob in the design and branding aspects of the business and this complemented his existing marketing and digital media experience. Bel has since moved on, and now lives in Canada with her husband and three children, but the focus the partnership was founded on has remained in place.

The agency has grown and evolved to develop unique brand centred strategic thinking and their focus on design quality and technical ability is at the heart of their recent projects. Rob is most proud of the work the agency has done for BBC Worldwide and cites being able to work from Burleigh Heads with a client based in London as a great achievement, demonstrating just what is possible with the Internet and a global attitude. The recent launch of BBC Worldwide’s global website for Doctor Who (doctorwho.tv) is a favourite project, along with the global site for their kid’s channel, CBeebies (cbeebies.com). Other local projects have also been very successful, such as naming and designing the label for Burleigh Brewing Co.’s ‘Duke Beer,’ and a comprehensive re-branding for Brisbanebased engineering firm ADG, which is a highlight as the agency saw its work rolled out across a large organisation. Their work with Bleach* Festival has also been receiving a degree of local attention. R&B Creative is currently in the planning stages with Bleach* Festival for the 2014 event. They also developed the online charity donation site (donateplanet.com) which was launched earlier this year and are now extending the features. The rebranding of the Gab Titui Cultural Centre, based in the Torres Strait, is another major project and some others from BBC Worldwide are in the pipeline. Exciting times for this little agency that is taking on the world. randb.com.au | soundlounge.com.au

79


industryspotlight

RelativeCreative projects

“I try to let the theory and strategy inform the visual outcome and leave the aesthetics as secondary.” —Tristan Schultz

80


industryspotlight

RelativeCreative designer in residence article by Dominique Falla

Tristan Schultz has a strong personal and work-related connection to the Gold Coast, growing up among the surf culture. No matter where he travels, he still misses home in Burleigh Heads.

shops. He has since created over 300 unique surfboard pieces and this work has led onto larger murals. After completing his degree, Tristan worked for Cult Industries (a now defunct surf label) and this began the path to his professional design career.

Tristan’s rich family history is evident in his Nanna’s photo albums that show her Miami home surrounded by cattle fields and marshlands. Tristan cites this family heritage as one of the reasons why he is so passionately committed to securing a healthy, sustainable community and lifestyle for Gold Coast residents for decades to come.

Finishing his Master of Design Futures with Honours at Queensland College of Art (QCA), Gold Coast was one of Tristan’s proudest achievements. An extremely challenging two years, it has clearly taken Tristan’s recent work in exciting new directions.

Tristan works out of Rabbit + Cocoon in Miami under his creative practice, ‘RelativeCreative’. He describes it as an interdisciplinary practice as he tends to work across various platforms. Having previously worked in the action sports industry as a product designer, these days, he couples those product design skills with visual communication, design and strategy, mostly for socially responsible clients such as health and wellbeing, Indigenous organisations, and the arts sector. Most recently, his work is blurring the lines between theory and practice, with his latest event ‘Kartografia’ encapsulating this new direction (kartografia.org). Tristan’s first creative outlet was unsurprisingly surfboard art. “When I was about 17 I found Posca Pens and never looked back,” he explains. Tristan would draw all over his friend’s surfboards and eventually had enough photographs of his work to show surf

“My work is unique these days because I like to think I bring complex theoretical understandings into visual practice,” Tristan says. “I try to let the theory and strategy inform the visual outcome and leave the aesthetics as secondary. I strongly believe if a designer has a strong theoretical underpinning to their work, the visual outcome will ensue and work autonomously.” Tristan has just submitted a paper examining Colonialism and Aboriginal dance with relation to tourist experiences. This paper will serve as a contextual backbone for the design of a tourism venture in the Northern Territory around Aboriginal Songlines and Tristan will be travelling to remote Northern Territory communities later in 2013 to advance the project. He has also been invited to serve as ‘Designer in Residence’ at Pimpama High School. Funded by Arts Queensland, the project will see Tristan working with the school on implementing Design Thinking into both the curriculum and student experience over the next 12 months. relativecreative.com.au

81


1

“I loved that work and environment. I could create patterns and artwork all day long and work with other amazing creatives!” —Kat Cameron

1. Watercolour 2. Pixel 3. Endless Summer 1. Pull out my insides.

82

1. Ethnic Festival 2. Moonlight Music 3. Journal

industryspotlight


industryspotlight

2

3

Team Kitten

drawing from experience article by Dominique Falla

Illustrator Kat Cameron moved to the Gold Coast from Melbourne when she was very young and has lived here for most of her life. Kat works on various commissioned pieces and has just finished a large piece for Nippon Paint in China, which will be painted in the underground stations of Shanghai and Beijing. When not busy with commissioned work, Kat works on personal projects like her own range of artwork prints. She sells them online and at the highly popular urban craft market Finders Keepers under the moniker of Team Kitten. Kat got her ‘big break’ when her work was showcased in the second issue of Yen magazine in a feature on ‘kinky arty girls’. “At the time, being the kinky arty girl I was, I submitted some work and they featured it,” Kat recalls. From this exposure, Kat was contacted by Total Girl magazine to commission work for their ‘How Embarrassing’ columns, horoscopes, diaries and various other illustrations. Kat also dabbled in web design while illustrating on the side and was then employed as a textile designer for the Colorado group. “I loved that work and environment. I could create patterns and artwork all day long and work with other amazing creatives!” she says. Team Kitten is the sum of Kat’s experiences and interests. “I am drawn to Japanese Kawaii (which means ‘cute’), Scandinavian

folk art, vintage children’s illustrations, Pop Culture, patterns, magic and rainbows,” she explains. These influences appear everywhere in her work. It is clear to see this eclectic sensibility coming through in every piece of delightful, playful artwork and is perhaps the key as to why her work strikes a chord with international audiences. As a commercial illustrator, Kat gets to work on a variety of projects, all over the world. A recent Spring campaign for Coke in Ireland featured her work on billboards, with die-cut illustrations pasted around, and bus shelters with the sounds of bird songs playing. Another international project saw Kat’s work travelling to New Zealand for Illicit Clothing. “I loved the artists they worked with so one day I sent them my artwork for an exhibition. They loved it and asked me to do a show with amazing comic book artist Simon Morse,” Kat recalls. Kat created some cool, dark, kinky illustrations for their clothing range and they invited her over to appear in their Big Day Out stall in Auckland, signing posters alongside their other artists. Surrounded with ‘happy knick knacks’ at her home studio, Kat’s creative process involves play and drawing. “If it’s just something for myself I don’t really use any references, I will just start drawing and see where it takes me, whatever is on my mind: a dream; a thought; a moment in time.” teamkitten.com

83


industryspotlight

1

3

84

2

1. Trent Mitchell 2. Turtleglide 3. Kiama 4. Untitled

“My camera and work has taken me to amazing places all over the world.” —Trent Mitchell


industryspotlight

4

TM Photography chasing the curve article by Heather Faulkner

Please tell us a little about your current work and/or creative practice. I tend to cover a variety of genres in my photography work. Fashion, sports editorial, lifestyle and portraiture are my main forte. My studio space is very simple and that suits my style very well. I prefer using natural light and I have a nice window that is beautiful for portraits and editorial work. When I am not in the studio shooting I am grinding away finishing shoot edits, marketing or doing business stuff. The best work I get to do is done outside and on location. My camera and work has taken me to amazing places all over the world. How did you get your start? I got my start by working in a publishing house and understanding the photographic needs of designers and editors from an editorial view point. That was a critical step between just taking pretty pictures for fun and delivering great pictures with strong graphic presence to tell a story on deadline with film. Once I had established a few solid contacts and had freelance photography eating up all of my spare time and mental space I decided to take the leap from my 9-5 as a magazine photo editor. During the leaping process I had a mentor guiding me on the sideline by the name of Ted Grambeau. If I could claim any one person being responsible for my photographic career it is him. One of the best humans I know and a genius with light, cameras and people. Ted taught me more what not to do than what to do. In that way I developed my own style and learned by my own mistakes, all while having a supporter on the sideline watching and backing me. What makes you or your work unique? I am not too sure about that. Photography is so subjective I can’t even think of how to answer that. There are so many good photographers coming up on an international level every day that it is hard to even comprehend that your own work is unique compared to the hundreds of millions of people taking photos every single second. I just feel lucky that I can call myself a professional

photographer in a time when everyone has access to affordable high quality cameras and lenses. What is your proudest achievement? Winning the International Photography Award for an image I took of my beautiful partner at Kirra Beach. I had a gut feeling something special could happen the afternoon I was planning to shoot. Everything came together and I took the best underwater image of my career. It felt amazing. I never thought I could win an International Photography Award, so when it happened it really did feel surreal. The only other moment to compare with that was when I opened the very first copy of my first self published book, Chasing the Curve: a Portrait of the Sea. That was special in a different way. It was more of an emotional moment than the surprise of winning an award. How do you get your inspiration? Light and life inspire me more than most things. I am very much a spiritual photographer in a way. I really do like being in the moment and capturing the essence of what is in front of me. I don’t think too much. It’s always the unplanned moments that are the best from my experience. I am not scared to let go to what is happening around me and work within that. Do you have any major projects in the pipeline? I am working on a second book at the moment that explores the moods of the sea above and below the surface. I have been shooting a series of underwater photographs over the past two years and have reached the point where I have a series of images that would look great in book form. I really do enjoy designing books and making things with my pictures. The book will contain a series of images called ‘The Turtle Glide’ that won the International Photography Award. It’s pretty exciting and fun to keep stuff like this going while I can. tmphoto.com.au

85


industryspotlight

“It keeps things interesting as I’m constantly challenging myself as a designer.” —Matt Vergotis

1. Watercolour 2. Pixel 3. Endless Summer 1. Pull out my insides.

86


industryspotlight

Verg Advertising a love for letters article by Dominique Falla

Gold Coast designer Matt Vergotis is very passionate about branding and corporate identity. Under the umbrella of Verg Advertising, he delivers visual identities that stretch way beyond the basic logo. In recent years, Matt has taken the process several steps beyond what most designers will do, and creates custom typefaces for their logos as well. Through this process, he has developed a new passion for typeface design and lettering which is garnering his work international attention. Matt attributes this success to the fact that he regularly publishes his work online to folio sites like Behance, LogoPond and Dribbble which has given him much needed international exposure. As a result, most of Matt’s clients are international. This passion for custom typefaces has led Matt to do the inevitable and design his own commercial typeface. Knubi evolved from an unused client logotype and Matt decided to set himself a challenge and create every other letter without referencing another font to test what knowledge he had developed after a lifetime of looking at letters. When the typeface was launched, it received some positive attention and this encouraged Matt to begin working on a new font. There are currently three weights of the new font, with one more in the works, along with their respective italic partners. Typefaces are a labour of love, but thanks to his work on Knubi, Matt reports that this time around ‘it’s a million times easier’. Matt approaches every brief with a blank canvas and formulates ideas based on what each client needs.

“Whether it’s indulging in a vintage lettering style or getting ultra minimalist and designing something with the use of geometry, every client is different,” Matt insists. “It keeps things interesting as I’m constantly challenging myself as a designer.” Matt’s latest project—a very upmarket bar called Cavalier Bar & Supper allows him to explore to a broad variety of elements required such as the calligraphy—style script logotype, an open crest, a background pattern and even a supporting typeface and ampersand! “It’s really come together nicely,” Matt explains. “What I’m looking forward to with this project is that the client is going to a great deal of trouble to make this the real deal, so once finished, there should be plenty of sexy assets to take photos of; letterpress printing, wax seals, timber impressions and cut metal signage that will really show off my work.” Matt feels there is still much to achieve with his new found passion for lettering, but already he has been asked to speak at this year’s Typism conference to an audience of lettering enthusiasts alongside some of Australia’s most recognised typographers. He is also passionate about the Gold Coast environment, and all of its treasures. “I’m inspired every morning when I watch the sun rise during my morning surf, my gorgeous girls and their magical imaginations.” verg.com.au

87



Enterprising Alumni Opportunities and careers in the creative arts are as many and varied as the students themselves.


enterprisingalumni

1

Ashleigh Brennan an obsession for typography article by Dominique Falla

Originally from a small town in Central Queensland called Bileola, Ashleigh Brennan moved to the Gold Coast in 2006 to study graphic design at the Queensland College of Art (QCA), Gold Coast. Once she finished her degree, she was offered a full time position at Liveworm, the on-campus work integrated learning studio. Mentored by the studio’s creative director, Dominique Falla, Ashleigh soon found her feet at Liveworm where she worked on print design projects for real-world clients, and also supervised the students who came through the studio. Ashleigh developed a high level of expertise in using software packages such as Adobe Illustrator and InDesign during this time and was able to help out with teaching the degree program. “I am obsessed with typography. Everywhere I go, even when I watch TV, I am constantly examining type, type treatments, and trying to guess typefaces,” she admits. The majority of her personal design work is type-based, and usually derived from music or song lyrics. “I like how lyrics take on a different meaning when taken out of the context of the song—they seem more powerful and dramatic,” Ashleigh explains.

90

She often participates in group exhibitions as part of the We Heart Collective and the freedom to create whimsical type pieces based on the exhibition theme allows Ashleigh room to play in ways that her commercial work doesn’t. One such piece is the Endless Summer cube. The background is an image from a vintage gardening book, with the ‘endless summer’ custom typography layered over the top in a perspex cube. It was through this personal work that Ashleigh was given the opportunity to have her Pixel F piece featured in Canada’s Uppercase magazine alongside international typographers such as Luke Lucas and Louise Fili, as part of their Beautiful Bitmaps alphabet series. Ashleigh recently moved to Brisbane and is currently working at Binge Advertising where her projects range from print design to animation and video editing and she continues to evolve her unique typographic style on personal projects. Ashleigh also recently animated the logo for the 2013 Typism conference on the Gold Coast. ashleighbrennan.com


enterprisingalumni

3

1. Endless Summer 2. Pixel F 3. Pull out my insides 4. Colour by number

2

“I like how lyrics take on a different meaning when taken out of the context of the song— they seem more powerful and dramatic.” —Ashleigh Brennan

4

91


enterprisingalumni

1

John Forno

a child of pop culture article by Dominique Falla

Standing tall at 195cm, covered in tattoos and topped off with red hair, John Forno is a distinctive feature of the Queensland College of Art (QCA), Gold Coast. John graduated in 2012 with a Bachelor of Digital Media, majoring in Fine Art but returned to continue his studies as part of the honours program. He actively participates in QCA community artwork ventures including several ongoing mural projects around the coast. “I have always had an interest in consumerism, mass media, ego, psychology and pop culture,” John explains. Originally John studied graphic design, but felt he was a fine artist trapped in a graphic designer’s body. “I always had a fear of paint, the marks always seemed final as opposed to Ctrl Z on a keyboard,” John admits. It wasn’t until a personal crisis in 2009 that John decided to challenge that fear and go to university to major in fine art. “I have many influences that inspire me from street artists and performance artists, to painters and sculptors,” John explains, also citing Danny Della-Bosca, one of his QCA lecturers, as an important mentor in this process. John’s work is an exploration of identity, upbringing and childhood. Though inspired by many artists with similar styles or beliefs, the fact that no two individuals, or their

92

upbringings, are the same allows John to bring a unique sense of self to his work. “Whether it be the ready-mades I use, the research I incorporate into my work, my tacit or experiential knowledge, there is always one thing in common in all of my work: ME!,” he explains. A self-proclaimed child of pop culture, John has been working with materials and influences from that era and his early sculptures make reference to street art and Star Wars characters, including R2D2 made out of a spray can placed inside an acrylic case, stencil spraying C3PO. John was excited with these early results and has continued this process of editing ‘ready-mades’ through several shows. Drawing inspiration from his own life, John sees art as a form of therapy. “I believe if I’ve experienced something in my life there would be someone in the world that could relate to the work, hopefully triggering a response from the viewer.” John continues to explore his life, work and themes through his art making process, with new pieces for the Powerhouse show utilising infinity mirrors as a visual analogy for consumerism and addiction within today’s society. fakelullabiesandfalseprophets.com


1. Public Art Project, Currumbin Wildlife Hospital, 2013 2. What Will Become of Tomorrow, 2012 3. The Duality of Me, 2012 4. R2D2

enterprisingalumni

3

2

“Whether it be the ready-mades I use, the research I incorporate into my work, my tacit or experiential knowledge, there is always one thing in common in all of my work: ME!” 4 Forno —John

4

93


enterprisingalumni

1

Henry Gao

bringing worlds together through Zspace article by Sharon Searle

With a passion for special effects and movies, Henry Gao arrived in Australia from Shandong College of Art in China, looking to begin a new life and build on his creative and technical knowledge.

creative partnership continued with the rebranding of China’s Science and Education Channel CCTV10, creating a new logo, promotion and in-show graphics—uniting all programs under the new branding.

A unique and unforgettable personality with ambition to match, Henry made Queensland his home and embarked on a Bachelor of Digital Media, majoring in Digital Design at Queensland College of Art (QCA), Gold Coast campus. Here his hard work, drive and energy was acknowledged by him becoming the first Chinese Teaching Assistant. Henry is a natural communicator and his people skills in this role meant he was a mentor to many International students.

Henry’s arrival at Zspace was perfect timing for this project, becoming a valuable Chinese-speaking IT savvy conduit for the creative team. Zspace allowed Henry to create a niche for his unique set of skills and his role within the company continues to evolve. Working closely with Ken Smart, he is developing Zspace’s profile in China and seeking out creative relationships and business opportunities.

In December 2012, Henry graduated with his Masters of Media and Arts and moved to Sydney where his introduction to Zspace director, Ken Smart, set him on a path that would allow Henry the scope to use the full spectrum of his creative and technical skills as well as tap into his entrepreneurial instincts. Zspace is one of Australia’s leading creative and production studios with a long history in producing high-end motion design, film productions, set design, live graphics and digital content for a wide variety of clients spanning the worlds of broadcast, advertising, marketing, events, corporate and government. Last year Zspace partnered with Beijing-based design house, Top Vision, to design and implement seven studio sets for China’s national sports channel CCTV5 (China Central TV) for their live coverage of the Olympic Games in London. This

94

“I am most proud to be the connection between post production in the Western World and the Chinese industries, bringing the best out of both worlds and creating something fantastic.” Henry has also had the opportunity to use his creative film and 3D design skills on local projects including the Wine Australia film series Savour 2013; the Australian Rugby opening graphics; rebranding for the Nine Network; plus opening titles and in-show graphics for A Current Affair, The Today Show and The Block. “I see life as one big design project—I am inspired every day to become a better version of myself,” he said. Watch this Zspace! zspace.com.au


1. Savour Australia 2013 2. Studio set for CCTV5 London Olympic Games 3. CCTV10 4. Australian Rugby opening credits

enterprisingalumni

“I am most proud to be the connection between post production in the Western World and the Chinese industries, bringing the best out of both worlds and creating something fantastic.” —Henry Gao

2

3

4

95


enterprisingalumni

1

2

Teneille Grace

illustrating graphic sensibilities article by Dominique Falla

Gold Coast local Teneille Grace graduated with a Bachelor of Digital Media in 2012. While she majored in Graphic Design, her specialty lies in illustration. Teneille’s work was chosen for the cover of the second issue of the Gold Coast Creative magazine. Quite an achievement for someone who was still studying. Since graduating, it has been difficult for Teneille to find full-time work in the design industry, however freelancing has allowed her to work with companies and design briefs that are more in-tune with her illustration skills.

Her work is inspired in a fine art sense, but the resulting images always demonstrate Teneille’s graphic sensibilities. Her favourite piece of work to date is the skate deck she created for the ‘I Used To Skate Once’ exhibition, held recently at Outpost in Brisbane.

Teneille’s work has developed over time to explore the ideas and stories she has in her head.

“I found it so interesting and challenging using a deck as my canvas,” she says.

“I have been told that my work provides an intriguing narrative which goes beyond the initial face value of a pretty picture, so that is always flattering to hear,” she says.

This use of unusual delivery mechanisms for her artwork stems from her graduate project where Teneille created a range of illustrated cushions which proved to be quite successful and showed her the potential of illustrated products to be commercially viable.

Teneille cites her proudest achievement as the moment she decided to move away from making work that is solely aesthetically pleasing. “I decided to delve into myself to think about the stories I would like to tell as an artist and convey through my art. The process of making art is so cathartic for me nowadays.”

96

Teneille seeks inspiration for her work through a central idea, theme or emotion that comes to her when watching a movie, listening to music, or from other life experiences. She then looks at images and visual inspiration to further develop the idea.

Inspired by this experience, Teneille is currently working on creating her own fabric patterns which will be made into a bespoke range of T-shirt and shirts. teneillegrace.com


enterprisingalumni

1. Girl Pattern 2. Butterfly Eye 3. Florence

3

“ … my work provides an intriguing narrative which goes beyond the initial face value of a pretty picture ...” —Teneille Grace

97


enterprisingalumni

1

Ella Johnston business branding article by Dominique Falla

Ella Johnston completed a Bachelor of Digital Media at Queensland College of Art (QCA), Gold Coast in 2010. Like many students, Ella worked as a barista to help fund her graphic design studies, but unlike most students, she credits this coffee-filled environment as the pathway to her ‘big break’. Working as a barista put her in touch with some useful connections and through these networks Ella was given the opportunity to re-brand all three cafés she worked for. This in turn has opened up a great deal of local exposure and boosted Ella on her current career path. The biggest of these ‘breaks’ was the opportunity to brand Kiva Han Roasting House in Mermaid Beach. “I’d never designed info-graphics, custom type or commercial packaging before, but being thrown in the deep end was an invaluable learning experience and I surprised myself along the way,” she says.

98

Mermaid Beach. Ella enjoyed this process in particular because of the opportunity to ‘experiment with different materials for signage and taste everything, of course’. Ella works with branding and strategy primarily in the retail and hospitality industries. Her outputs include brand audits, strategy, identity systems, print, environmental design and more. Where possible, she loves getting involved with the business aspects of the brand as well. Ella’s design approach is based around the combination of strategic thought and creative process. “I work with people to establish the core values of their business and their individual goals and needs,” she says. Each step along the way has led to more opportunities and Ella is currently working with her first multinational client on a really exciting project.

The results are fantastic. Kiva Han is one of the most stylish coffee houses along the infamous Nobbys/Mermaid ‘coffee strip.’

Unfortunately we can’t give away more than that just yet! Watch this space.

This success led on to branding Kiva Han’s new venture ‘K-Bar’ in

ellajohnston.com.au


enterprisingalumni

1. She Bangs coffee print marketing collateral 2. Kiva Han signage 3. Piece Style & Design signage

2

3

“I work with people to establish the core values of their business and their individual goals and needs.” —Ella Johnston

99


enterprisingalumni

2

1

Tegan Kiri & Jessica Lee a creative blend article by Dominique Falla

Tegan Kiri and Jessica Lee are the owners and operators of ‘Harpa’—a boutique design studio, source of inspiration and creative blend of illustration, graphic design and photography. Tegan and Jessica are both graduates of the Queensland College of Art (QCA), Gold Coast, majoring in Graphic Design and minoring in Photography. Completing their degrees at different times, the pair were introduced at the beginning of 2013 and began collaborating on freelance projects. It didn’t take long before they realised how well they worked as a team and complemented each others skills. Sharing a mutual style and creative vision, they decided to establish Harpa, a brand that represented the edgy yet feminine vibe they both love. Working full time on design projects, the world of Harpa

100

remains diverse and ever-changing with the added elements of fashion photography and custom illustration. “Over the past few months we have branded a new café franchise, developed branding and marketing for a chain of health centres and worked alongside Ashy Bines on ASHY BINES SWIM, which is now stocked in Myer! “We love working closely with large scale clients, developing projects from start to finish.” Although Harpa has only been established for a short time, Tegan and Jessica are loving the fact that the brand is already evolving and creating its own identity on the Gold Coast, while providing a creative outlet for them on a daily basis. They can’t wait to see how Harpa grows with them and what the future has in store. harpadesign.com


1. Purple Hair – Harpa Design 2. Harpa branding 3. Girls with a cow 4. Jessica Lee & Tegan Kiri 5. Illustration – Harpa Design

enterprisingalumni

4

… the world of Harpa remains diverse and everchanging with the added elements of fashion photography and custom illustration. 3

5

101


enterprisingalumni

Matthew Littlewood a travelling storyteller article by Dominique Falla

Born in Sydney and raised on the Gold Coast, Matthew Littlewood considers himself a citizen of the world. Although he travels every chance he gets, Matthew is still proud to call the Gold Coast home. He is currently living and working in western Canada with plans to make his way down south to Central America after spending a year or so up north. As with all his travels, Matthew plans to document the journey on his website: howdoyousee.com. As a student at Queensland College of Art (QCA), Gold Coast, Matthew majored in Graphic Design but discovered his true passion lay in combining photography and travel. After several overseas trips, Matt created the brand, howdoyousee, as a celebration of inspiration and exploration from all over the world, based on real stories from real people, starting with his own travels. Throughout his degree, Matthew would return to Australia to complete a few more subjects, earn just enough money to keep travelling and head off again to document even more incredible experiences. One look at the resulting photographs and it is clear Matthew has discovered his lifelong passion. His stunning images reveal his dedication to showing the world through his eyes. “It is a belief I have that experiencing a wide range of cultures helps you become a more open, accepting, appreciative and helpful person, and the more people in the world that have these qualities the better this world will be for everyone,” he explains.

102

Matthew cites hard work and dedication as the only way to make dream projects happen in the competitive world of travel photography. “There is almost no chance of having someone give you a chance without making a name for yourself first. And that’s what I am working on right now,” he explains. Matthew’s graduate project, and proudest achievement to date, is the first publication from howdoyousee called ‘Find Yourself Lost’, a large-format, hardcover publication of photographs from Africa. Matthew is currently working on his own photography projects while pursuing the dream for his work to inspire others to travel and appreciate the world around them. “I get my inspiration mostly from the people I meet on the road, people just like myself who are excited at the idea of tomorrow and what that day may hold but also passionate about sharing their experiences with others in the aim for those who listen to seek out a similar experience,” he says. When asked what the future holds, the answer is simple. “Writing new stories, taking new photos and finding more people who want to share the way they see in the hope of creating a better world through experiencing all that it has to offer.” Sounds like the perfect way to see the world. howdoyousee.com


enterprisingalumni

“It is a belief I have that experiencing a wide range of cultures helps you become a more open, accepting, appreciative and helpful person ...” —Matthew Littlewood

103


enterprisingalumni

Mireille Merlet

a passion for photography article by Dominique Falla

Mireille Merlet, or ‘Mimi’ as she is affectionately known, entered the Queensland College of Art (QCA), Gold Coast as a mature-aged student and graduated in 2010 with a Bachelor of Digital Media majoring in ePhotojournalism.

“I think you have to create opportunities to meet other photographers and look at other people’s work to keep being inspired,” she says. “And I think you meet people along the way who will help you or mentor you one way or another.”

Originally from France, Mimi arrived on the Gold Coast in 1998 and lived there for 13 years before moving to Skennars Head near Byron Bay to work on her first job as a graduate photojournalist.

Mimi admits it took a lot of courage to travel to India on her own, especially to an event where 110 million people gathered over 52 days. However, as the next event won’t take place for another 12 years, she felt drawn to go.

She is currently a staff photographer for APN Media, and works at The Northern Star newspaper in Lismore. In fact, Mimi was so keen to get the job she turned up a week early to the interview. A gregarious and effervescent person, Mimi finds the job suits her perfectly. Every day is different, she gets to live in a beautiful part of the world and she meets amazing people on a daily basis. “You never know what you are going to do from day-to-day or who you are going to meet and photograph, it could be anyone from a local farmer to Kevin Rudd,” she explains. Mimi also went to India earlier this year to photograph the Kumbh Mela in Allahabad, and while there she met some amazing photographers including well-known French photographer Eric Bouvet. He originally got in touch with Mimi through her Facebook page and she was able to receive mentoring from him while she was in India.

104

Mimi is currently photographing couples who have been in a relationship for 35 years and over. She interviews and photographs them, looking for the secret of successful long term relationships. This was a project she started as part of her Honours study, while still at university, but it is clearly a passion project that she plans to continue, travelling to France, Belgium and the Netherlands later in the year. “Everyone has a story to tell and I love that they are sharing that story with me,” she says. Mimi plans to produce an exhibition and book from the project and encourages anyone interested to contact her via her website, especially couples involved in long term relationships. Mimi is clearly enthusiastic about the stories people have to tell, and this is expressed in her photography. mireillemerlet.com


enterprisingalumni

“Everyone has a story to tell and I love that they are sharing that story with me.” —Mireille Merlet

105


enterprisingalumni

1

Matthew Neal

visual communication and interactive design article by Dominique Falla

Gold Coast digital designer Matthew Neal has the rare talent of being able to combine great visual design and communication skills with the ability to code and program. His pathway through university almost took him down a straight coding path, but Digital Design convener Dale Patterson persuaded Matt to join the Queensland College of Art (QCA), Gold Coast rather than the School of IT and it was here that Matt was exposed to both sides of visual communication and interactive design. He fell in love with both and completed a Bachelor of Visual Media and went on to graduate from the Honours program. After moving to London, Matt was offered the opportunity to work in a small production studio called Pirata. He was lucky enough to join at a time when the studio was transitioning from agency-led campaign work to focusing more on direct relationships with brands and building digital products and services. According to Matt, the experience was ‘a lot of fun’ as he was surrounded by a talented group of ‘pirates’, guided by the captains of the ship and mentored by two very different senior designers. Matt says his proudest achievement at Pirata was the acknowledgement his work for Team GB garnered at the Webbys and the One Show Interactive this year. The initial project of re-imagining the digital identity of Team GB and the

106

re-launch of the .com was completed in a staggering ten weeks, from initial brief to final production. A massive effort that was followed quickly by a community-led digital campaign and companion web app leading up to the London 2012 Olympics. His favourite project so far has to be working on the 2013 season launch of McLaren Formula One. It was the last project Matt completed before returning to Australia and one of the trickiest to design both visually and functionally. An information-rich site that was data driven and based around accessibility and ease of use, the goal was to keep it simple and easy to navigate, while it adapted across devices of all shapes and sizes creating a seamless ‘McLaren experience’. As a digital designer, it is surprising to learn that Matt tries to work more off-screen than on-screen when brainstorming. “My desk is always covered in hordes of paper with sketches, in what I’d like to think is organised chaos,” he explains. Every project he tackles, Matt asks the question: ‘If this were me, how would I want this to look or work?’. This leads him to daydream and, more often than not, get lost looking for inspiration in lifestyle photos and print work. Matt recently returned to Australia and walked straight into a job with Brisbane’s Cru Digital, where he will no doubt find even more opportunities for people to connect with his ideas. mattneal.com.au


enterprisingalumni

2

“My desk is always covered in hordes of paper with sketches, in what I’d like to think is organised chaos.”

1. Pirata website 2. Pirata branding collateral 3. McLaren website

—Matthew Neal

3

107



QCA Graduate Showcase In 2013 students have excelled in a range of creative streams.


Having natural creative talent is one thing. Refining it, exploring it and doing more with it is another thing all together. At Queensland College of Art Griffith University, we know just how to make this happen. Queensland College of Art Gold Coast offers the unique Bachelor of Digital Media, allowing you to build your own pathway of creative study that links the best of all works!

BACHELOR OF DIGITAL MEDIA FINE ART - 3D DESIGN - DIGITAL DESIGN - EPHOTOJOURNALISM GRAPHIC DESIGN - FASHION DESIGN - INTERIOR DESIGN - DRAWING

VISIT griffith.edu.au/qca FOR MORE


3 Dimensional Design Graduates are highly valued in creative design and manufacturing for innovative thinking and developing a concept into a reality. The range of applications is broad, with graduates involved in 3D design for products, such as lighting, furniture and packaging, and 3D design for environments, both real world and virtual.

MIA PARCELL XANTHE UNWIN


graduateshowcase

MIA PARCELL hello@miaparcell.com miaparcell.com 0415 328 318 ACHIE VEMENTS Typism student partner 2013 Cover graphic for Raw Ink Magazine June 2013 Analogue Digital/Fritz Frames Competition Finalist 2012 Griffith Award for Academic Excellence 2011

112

Graduating with a Major in 3D Design specialising in Graphic Design, I have developed a range of diverse skills to help broaden my horizons and creative outlook as an emerging designer. I’ve always been very passionate about having a creative career. My aim is to gain experience as a designer and throw myself into the industry whole heartedly. Design has consumed my life and I love it that way. I hope to combine both passions of 3D and Graphic Design to enjoy an exciting and challenging career within the creative industries.


graduateshowcase

XANTHE UNWIN xantheunwin@gmail.com xantheunwin.daportfolio.com 0421 672 719

I have always loved to draw things that people cannot see and so a concept artist seemed like the perfect career path for me. Since coming to this conclusion, I am constantly drawing and visualising characters that come to me. I started off with purely traditional mediums but have since progressed to digital; using mainly Photoshop and a Wacom tablet to draw and several 3D programs to sculpt characters. These drawings are characters of my own imagining set in a dystopian world.

ACHIE VEMENTS Finalist in Art Express 2010 Displayed in the Tweed River Art Gallery twice Work experience with Outback Gondwana Foundation

113


Digital Design Graduates have a unique combination of creative design and software specialisations which enables them to take advantage of opportunities in post-production animation and video production, web and games production, as well as printing for industry.

AMIR EHSAN


graduateshowcase

AMIR EHSAN info@amirsdesigns.com amirsdesigns.com 0404 552 651 ACHIE VEMENTS Designer at Uniquestar Promotions 2013 Shortlisted in Southern Cross Packaging Awards 2012 Designer at Face 2 Face Sports 2012 Designer at Zamin Technical Institute 2010

I started producing creative material when I was six-years-old by playing different musical instruments and composing songs. I continued with this by getting a degree in music. Communicating with creative people made me more interested in digital design and multimedia skills. The end of 2013 will see me graduating with a Bachelor of Multimedia, majoring in Visual Media Design. Based on all the experiences that I have gained during my degree and in the real work force, I consider myself to be a jack-of-all-trades. However, I am most passionate about web design and development, graphic design and advertising.

115


Fine Art Graduates are entering a sector that is expanding exponentially with career opportunities in professional practice, arts management, public art, curatorship and art education. Fine Art graduates from the Queensland College of Art have an enviable record of career success as professional artists and also hold significant posts in the arts, education and administration.

ALYSON BAKER JASON HAGGERTY TYLER JACKSON


graduateshowcase

ALYSON BAKER aly-baker@hotmail.com alyson-baker-visual-artist.com 0420 828 939

My practice is multidisciplinary using both conventional and contemporary mediums to imbue meaning. Majoring in Fine Art with Drawing and Printmaking as specialisations I have spent the past five years exploring the emotional struggle of breast cancer. During this time I have collaborated with the National Breast Cancer Foundation and support group Young Pink Sisters. My work has included interviews with other women, collaborating with other artists and experimentation in my own art practice.

ACHIE VEMENTS Golden Key International Honour Society Member Cancer Council Art Award 2012 Griffith Award for Academic Excellence 2011–2012

117


graduateshowcase

JASON HAGGERTY jason@jason-haggerty.com jason-haggerty.com 0402 629 018 ACHIE VEMENTS Curator – photo/essence exhibition Secretary – Smudge Collective Co-Curator – Blend | Smudge Group Exhibition Griffith Award for Academic Excellence 2011–2012

118

The central concern of my practice and research is the growth and rapid evolution of cyberspace, the ways in which intense streams of information are shifting the nature of human interaction, concepts of self, popular culture, social networks, the duality of online and offline presence and the overlapping of online content into real life. Utilising technology and new medias such as motion and body tracking, video, computer software, audio synthesisers and 3D modelling/printing, my practice strives to challenge the conceived notions of art making, with installations, performance and digital sculptures that place the viewer’s experience as paramount.


graduateshowcase

TYLER JACKSON tyler@tjvisualdesign.com tjvisualdesign.com 0403 672 803

Tyler Jackson is majoring in Fine Art, but started his career as a Graphic Designer. With keen interests in Photography and 3D Design, Jackson is focused on developing his sculptural and installation art as his main practice as these give him the most conceptual freedom. Having achieved outstanding academic results throughout his degree, Jackson, whose record is recognised by the Golden Key Scholarship program, continues to refine his practice which centres on perception and understanding of human phenomena.

ACHIE VEMENTS Diploma of Graphic Design Golden Key International Honours Society Member

119


Graphic Design Graduates find rewarding careers in the visual design industries including print, corporate design, publishing, packaging, branding, advertising, marketing, television and digital media.

MICAELA ADAMS

ALEX HEY

JESS BARKER

KENTO IKOMA

VASHTI BARKER

JORGIA KOLNAC

CHRIS CHIDLOW

ALANA MAXWELL

BRITTANY COLVILLE

CLAIRE SEWELL

ROXY COPPEN

MINNA STÅLNÄBB SANDBLOM

JENNA COVERLY


graduateshowcase

MICAELA ADAMS

I’ve always known design was a part of my future. Since starting my degree my designs have flourished and my eye for colour and quirky personality is shown through my work.

micaela.adams@hotmail.com moomic.com.au theforestandme.com

The Forest and Me is a side project where I can expand my creativity.

My interest lies in layout design for magazines and I have a passion for branding. I am known for my unique and playful style which allows me to showcase who I am as a designer.

0403 969 832 ACHIE VEMENTS Liveworm Work Placement 2013

121


graduateshowcase

JESS BARKER jess@jessbarker.com jessbarker.com 0457 071 335 ACHIE VEMENTS Cover graphic for Raw Ink Magazine July 2013 Shortlisted in Southern Cross Packaging Awards 2012

122

Aside from my Graphic Design major, I have a vast array of skills in diverse design disciplines. This includes website design and development, illustration, understanding photography and jewellery design/making. I do prefer a more hands on approach with all my design disciplines. My preference is to design by hand as I gain a better feel for the project than simply starting on a computer. At the end of the process I digitally render my designs and I feel this method produces far better outcomes.


graduateshowcase

VASHTI BARKER

Hi, my name is Vashti Barker and I am an emerging graphic designer on the Gold Coast. There has always been a creative element in my life, from learning a musical instrument to photographing the changing world around me. This lifelong need to express myself creatively has grown into a passion for design.

hello@vashtibarker.com vashtibarker.com

There is nothing I like more than clean, white spaces and bright colours. I enjoy challenging myself, and I am excited to continue to grow and expand my knowledge in the graphic design industry.

0419 360 496 ACHIE VEMENTS Typism student partner 2013 Griffith Award for Academic Excellence 2012 Shortlisted in Southern Cross Packaging Awards 2012 QCA Newsletter – chosen design 2012

123


graduateshowcase

CHRIS CHIDLOW chrischidlowdesigns@gmail.com chrischidlow.com 0434 628 231 ACHIE VEMENTS Liveworm Work Placement 2013 Industry placement with Mclean Images 2011 Diploma of Graphic Design, Bremer TAFE 2010 Certificate III in Graphic Design, Bremer TAFE 2008

124

Hi I’m Chris! I am a Digital Media Graduate majoring in Graphic Design. My passion is logo design and corporate branding. In 2010 I graduated TAFE with a Diploma of Graphic Design, continuing on with my work experience for one year in the print and design industry. I am incredibly enthusiastic about graphic design and I believe it is my forte in life. After working and furthering my studies in the design industry it makes me extremely eager to begin a new chapter of my life in the design world.


graduateshowcase

125


graduateshowcase

BRITTANY COLVILLE hello@brittanycolville.com brittanycolville.com 0416 514 158 ACHIE VEMENTS Griffith Honours College Griffith Award for Academic Excellence 2010–2012 State University of New York Fall President’s List 2011 Bronze in Southern Cross Packaging Awards 2011

126

With a keen eye for design, photography, drawing and jewellery making, the creative realm is where my heart lies. Equipped with a Bachelor of Digital Media, my life’s mission with every guideline, swatch and kern is to make the world a more visually appealing place. I am seeking an employment environment where my creative intellect will be recognised. Also where good presentation, communication and entrepreneurial spirit are valued. Well travelled and culturally aware, I would also consider opportunities interstate or abroad.


graduateshowcase

ROXY COPPEN hello@roxycoppen.com roxycoppen.com 0448 342 589

I love taking on a creative challenge—whether it be branding, web design, graphics, photography, publishing, film or digital design. I want to experience all areas of design throughout my career and would love to one day work in a studio with other like-minded creatives. Throughout my studies, I have been involved with many creative projects such as my own online publication Raw Ink Magazine, my handmade jewellery enterprise Sweet on Buttons and working as the lead graphic designer for Devillain Clothing.

ACHIE VEMENTS Chosen design for the QCA Handbook 2013 Typism Student Partner 2013 Gold Coast Institute of TAFE guest speaker 2012

127


graduateshowcase

JENNA COVERLY jennacoverly@hotmail.com jennacoverly.com 0413 177 522 ACHIE VEMENTS Liveworm Work Placement 2013 Breed Design Studio Work Placement 2013 Cover graphic for Raw Ink Magazine October 2013

128

My heart still lies in Africa and my illustration work is heavily influenced by it. Beautiful women, animals and feathers almost always appear when my pencil hits the paper. I love creating strikingly bold imagery and line work that captures movement and expresses feeling. When I’m not sitting drinking a cup of tea with a pencil in my hand, I am allowing Graphic Design to consume my creativity. I find myself obsessing and perfecting every last detail in any design brief I am given. Branding and packaging are my strong points and I love producing original work that is eye catching and well balanced. I am eager to begin my career and believe that love, patience and determination are all key in achieving a fulfilling and thriving life as a creative.


graduateshowcase

ALEX HEY

Graphic Design has always been a major part of my life. I believe it is a form of expression, which allows my thoughts, and ideas, to come to life through print.

info@heyalexdesigns.com.au heyalexdesigns.com.au

The past three years at Griffith University have allowed me to further my knowledge and develop my skills, and now it is time to put those skills to good use within the Graphic Design industry.

0417 564 203

I am passionate about creating unique and original pieces of work, which produce solutions for design problems.

ACHIE VEMENTS Liveworm Work Placement 2013 Jet Pilot Australia (JPI) Work Placement 2013

129


graduateshowcase

KENTO IKOMA rosabeast@live.com rosabeast.com 0451 960 085 ACHIE VEMENTS Liveworm Work Placement 2013

130

My name is Kento and I like to design! I’ve always had an interest in having a career that is computer related. There has always been one area that has sparked my interest and that I’ve wanted to pursue. It is Graphic ... wait for it ... Design! I really love designing logos for people. When I go on Illustrator, I enter a parallel dimension and things go out of control. In a good way. It’s like there’s two sides of me. I love working with people and sharing ideas. Crazy ideas. Hire me maybe? xoxo


graduateshowcase

JORGIA KOLNAC jorgiarose.k@gmail.com 0417 432 747

The love of Typography, Illustration and Communication has been my main interest while studying Graphic Design. I am always being inspired by new and old trends which have had a huge influence on my work. As I enhance my skills as a Graphic Designer, I have specialised in Creative Communication. I have grasped a greater understanding of the ‘Design World’ and various techniques in order to tackle it. As a Designer venturing into the future, I intend on making a difference in both local and global issues.

ACHIE VEMENTS Liveworm Work Placement 2013 Shortlisted for Wearable Trainers Corporate Identity 2012 Diploma of Interactive Digital Media at Tafe 2010

131


graduateshowcase

ALANA MAXWELL hello@alanamaxwell.com.au alanamaxwell.com.au 0438 658 177 ACHIE VEMENTS Liveworm Work Placement 2013 International Study Tour – Germany & New York 2012 Griffith Award for Academic Excellence 2011

132

Hello, my name is Alana and I like to make a variety of things. These include, but are not limited to: silver jewellery, handmade lampshades, posters, logos, packaging and photographs. Studying Graphic Design has taught me to utilise my keen eye for the visual to solve problems graphically and I believe my interest in handcrafting objects has influenced my style greatly. As a progressing designer I have a lot to offer and am keen to show this to the world ‌ while wearing cute handmade jewellery!


graduateshowcase

CLAIRE SEWELL sea.sewell@hotmail.com seasewell.com

I love to create and explore the fusion of art and design, always striving to create something unique. You will usually find me behind a camera capturing the splendours of life in the natural environment. My passion is to create a beautiful world, one design at a time, adapting concepts through photography or art. Good design is omnipresent and forever.

0431 614 188 ACHIE VEMENTS Liveworm Work Placement 2013 Artist featured in Swell Sculpture Festival 2013 Blend Smudge Collective Group Exhibition 2012 FEVAH Young Artist Award 2007

133


graduateshowcase

MINNA STĂ…LNĂ„BB SANDBLOM minnastalnabbsandblom@live.com behance.net/minnassandblom 0421 951 216 ACHIE VEMENTS Liveworm Work Placement 2013

134

For me creativity has never been far away. It has been with me since I was really young, so it has been no surprise that it is the way I want to go with my career. I love to work with different materials and try new methods, finding inspiration in both new and old, by hand or digital. Graphic Design has helped steer me towards what I want to do in my practice but also given me a wider knowledge of design.


Honours The Queensland College of Art Honours program provides students with an opportunity to undertake advanced study and develop superior research skills and methodologies in the creative realm.

YOKO LANCE SONIA YORK-PRYCE


graduateshowcase

YOKO LANCE info@yokolance.com.au yokolance.com.au 0402 055 884 ACHIE VEMENTS Queensland Centre for Photography exhibition 2013 Deputy Editor of The Argus 2013

136

Photography practice taught me how to perceive, digest, and translate the world. Photography fascinates me as you cannot avoid being passive when you capture a moment. It always reflects how you choose to see and focus on the subject. Studying ePhotojournalism with Honours after completing the Bachelor of Communication gave me great strength to interact with the world. I have completed an internship with the Gold Coast Bulletin, and now currently work for the Nichigo Press, the largest circulating Japanese newspaper published in Australia.


graduateshowcase

137


graduateshowcase

SONIA YORK-PRYCE

English born Sonia York-Pryce is a sculptor, photographer and film-maker. She studied Ballet and Contemporary dance extensively in London, UK. She holds a Bachelor of Visual Arts from Southern Cross University, NSW majoring in 3D.

muffin@soniayork-pryce.com soniayork-pryce.com

Her personal relationship with dance has drifted into her arts practice, particularly her photography. She enjoys the role reversal of being the viewer enabling her to capture the essence of ‘what dance feels like’ through long time exposure photography.

0426 282 100 ACHIE VEMENTS Invited photographer to Cloud Dance Festival Lacuna, London UK 2013 Red Gate Gallery Artist Residency, Beijing, China 2012 Finalist Take A Bow, Ballarat Biennale, Victoria 2012

138


graduateshowcase

139


Sponsors & Supporters

GOLD COAST CITY GALLERY

Pat Corrigan

140

Development & Alumni


thank you for supporting the cultural & creative growth of the gold coast.


issue four. 2013

proudly produced by

563005 771838 9

ISSN: 1838-563X

celebrating the cultural & creative growth of the gold coast.

ISSUE 4 2013

$19.95 (inc gst)

celebrating the cultural & creative growth of the gold coast.

issue four. 2013


Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.