Stevie-Rae Prow
20
Diploma of Visual Merhandising at RMIT University.
I've always been in love with media. I was more interested in the sets on movies rather than the actual content and I always dreamed of starting my own magazine. I studied media, visual communication design and photography in VCE and one of my teachers recommended I do the Visual Merchandising course at RMIT because of the wide range of design aspects that it covers. I had no idea what I actually wanted to do, so this course was so appealing because I was able to try all the different areas.
What kind of design do you specialise in?
Visual merchandising, styling and illustration. This is anything from retail interiors/ windows, exhibition design, events, photographic styling and magazines.
What does being a designer mean to you?
Doing what I love. Having the freedom to express myself through a creative medium... being able to turn that into a job is the most exciting bonus!
What do you feel are the troubles with being a student designer?
I think being a younger designer, that is straight out of school, can be a struggle. A lot of companies are looking for designers with years of experience. I guess as long as you can show your dedication and talent industry experience should matter too much.
Do you have an ideology as a designer?
With my personal works I like to explore topics like feminism, body positivity and equality. I think it's very important to make people think!
Have you ever worked on a cross-disciplinary project or would you be interested in it?
Yes, I love working with other people. I've done shoots with amazing photographers and inspiring makeup artists and graphic designers. It's really nice when you can all team up and work together to create something wonderful... And appreciate each others talents!
Do you feel you have enough or any avenues for exposure as a designer?
I feel it's all about finding ways to get yourself out there. Connecting with people is the most important thing for me. It's all about who you know really.
Websites like theloop and linkedin are helpful with finding design jobs and posting past works.
Who are you inspired by?
I get inspired by anything.
The 1950's, street art, Japan, the female form, relationships, feminism, femininity, minimalism, Instagram... Artists like Alex McLeod and Will cotton who create their own wonderful worlds.