Creative Industries - Online Pupil Forum by Excelerate https://padlet.com/Excelerate/2uv7x396akisjwl6 Made with curiousity. This is your space to ask industry professionals questions. Our industry professionals include: Shona, PR Account Director - BIG Partnership | Claudia, Interior Designer and Founder - Claudia Padula Interior Design and Studio | Mark, Creative Director - Flux | Claire, Service Design Consultant - Service Design Academy (SDA) | en-us 2021-10-19 18:14:28 UTC 2023-11-27 15:27:46 UTC hello@padlet.com https://padlet-uploads.storage.googleapis.com/638135702/2e9d9d3fab21d6b9b3d1a6083d356585/Creative.png What skills do you need to do your job? Excelerate https://padlet.com/Excelerate/2uv7x396akisjwl6/wish/1828122194 Creativity and imagination are key but you also need the technical ability to be able to make those work. Also one of the most valuable skills is communicating, whether that is being able to explain your thinking or to gain what you need from a client (Mark).

For an Interior Designer, people skills are key. You need to translate your clients' ideas, likes and dislikes and create a tangible project. Most times, you need to "read between lines" and understand your client needs even if they don't know what they want.  
Spatial ability is also an important skill to have as an Interior Designer, to visualise objects in three dimensions in your mind, objects that are not there yet, understand their proportions and how they will look once they are together in a space. 
Creativity, attention to detail, sketching are all important skills to have as well. (Claudia)

For a career in journalism or PR you need a keen news sense (watch or read the news and keep up to date!), excellent writing skills with great grammar and spelling, an interest in other people and their stories and strong communication skills to be able to tell a story so everyone understands it. (Shona)]]> 2021-10-19 18:14:28 UTC https://padlet.com/Excelerate/2uv7x396akisjwl6/wish/1828122194 What school subjects do you use the most in your job? Excelerate https://padlet.com/Excelerate/2uv7x396akisjwl6/wish/1828122196 The most obvious one is of course Art but I also use English when it comes to research and copy writing. Surprisingly I use Maths quite a lot, not just for direct mathematical problems but for a method of problem solving in general, such as spotting patterns, interpreting data and breaking things down into more manageable pieces. Sorry to say but your teachers are right, algebra is important! (Mark).

I agree with Mark! Algebra is super important!. 
Art History has been quite useful for me. Do you know that a lot of modern furniture pieces are inspired by the Renaissance and other periods in art history?. Check out the Victoria Ghost chair by Philippe Starck for Kartell, really modern and it is inspired by a Baroque Louis XVI chair. Also how Michelangelo's used forced perspective and optical illusion in architecture, I have found constant inspiration in Art History. (Claudia)

Being good at art in school set me on my path to becoming a designer! In service design, research is also a really important aspect, so any subject that requires you to look things up and find meaning about times, people, social contexts, events and statistics will help you build your research skills. I remember doing this for History, RMPS and Modern Studies. (Claire)

English and Modern Studies are the two subjects I enjoyed most at school and they are the subjects that are still most relevant to my work. I write everyday and have to keep up to date on things like politics and law. (Shona)
]]> 2021-10-19 18:14:28 UTC https://padlet.com/Excelerate/2uv7x396akisjwl6/wish/1828122196 Where do you think the jobs will be in 5 years time? Excelerate https://padlet.com/Excelerate/2uv7x396akisjwl6/wish/1828122197 I think the importance of branding will continue to advance and evolve in line with the way we communicate. Understanding why you do what you do and using that to make an emotional connection with your audience will be the key to successful branding, which will lead to company brands and personal brands merging to create human brands (Mark).

Interior Design is a multi-billion pound industry in the UK, continuously growing. Because of Covid-19 and lockdown measures, people started to realise the importance of investing in creating multifunctional spaces that are pleasant to live, study and work in. There is a need for high skilled Interior Designers to create efficient solutions for clients. This need will continue to grow in the following years. (Claudia)

We are already seeing a huge shift from traditional media to digital media and the way we consume news continues to change. Skills like video production and content creation for social media and blogs as well as online news content will be more evident as newspapers (sadly!) continue to decline. (Shona)]]> 2021-10-19 18:14:28 UTC https://padlet.com/Excelerate/2uv7x396akisjwl6/wish/1828122197 What do you love the most about the industry you work in? Excelerate https://padlet.com/Excelerate/2uv7x396akisjwl6/wish/1828122202 The thing I love most is also the most scary, starting with a blank piece of paper and then creating something that didn't exist before. The freedom to be creative and using that to work with people to solve problems. How every project is different because every client is different and being given the opportunity to find out why they do what they do and playing a part in making that a success. Also running my own branding agency called Flux is pretty cool (Mark).

The design industry is continuously innovating with new products, new trends, developing new materials. The continuous change is what makes Interior Design so fascinating, using innovation and creating beautiful and functional spaces that can make an impact on peoples everyday life is what I love the most about my job. (Claudia)

As people's needs and priorities change over time, so must the design of the services that we use everyday (all of the things we come into in contact with that help us access the things we need or want.) So, the thing I love about the service design industry is the continuous learning around the way people experience the world and what their changing needs are. Helping businesses understand their customers better and get creative with problem solving is something I love about the day-to-day aspects of my job! (Claire)

I love the variety of my job - no two days are ever the same in PR. Today I am in Glasgow with clients to attend an awards ceremony and tomorrow I am writing a feature on climate change. The pace is fast and it's always busy. (Shona)]]> 2021-10-19 18:14:28 UTC https://padlet.com/Excelerate/2uv7x396akisjwl6/wish/1828122202 What experience do I need to follow a career in Acting? https://padlet.com/Excelerate/2uv7x396akisjwl6/wish/1893872865 *Get work experience in local theatres, even helping backstage
*Join a local Youth Theatre - also try the National Youth Theatre who now operate around the country a bit more which is helpful
*If really dedicated, look at drama courses around the country.
Accredited drama schools are often seen as the strongest but if you are really really keen you will find your way to a career in acting no matter where you train.
 
It's a fierce battle-ground breaking into the acting profession so you have to be 100% committed and dedicated but I always say that every career is difficult to break into so you may as well try if you're really keen :)
 
I had the best experience in my 20s and I use the training and experience every day even now in my current work.
(Nick, ITV)
]]> 2021-11-16 11:35:21 UTC https://padlet.com/Excelerate/2uv7x396akisjwl6/wish/1893872865 do you get to do your own thing or is it always someone else asking you to do specific things? https://padlet.com/Excelerate/2uv7x396akisjwl6/wish/1893946046 When you first start out then you will most likely be at a junior level and will be doing what you are asked to do but this isn't a bad thing as this it where you need to learn as much as you can. That doesn't mean that you have to follow blindly, so don't be afraid to use your imagination and initiative to show your passion and creativity as this will help you grow as a creative. The creative industry is all about collaboration, not just with colleagues but with clients, so show that you are valuable, put your ideas out there, the worst that will happen is they say no but they will admire you for trying and take notice. I started as junior artworker on a 4 week contract, I then left the company several years later as a senior designer to become a creative design manager and now I run my own branding agency, all by putting my ideas out there! (Mark).]]> 2021-11-16 12:20:08 UTC https://padlet.com/Excelerate/2uv7x396akisjwl6/wish/1893946046 How is this job different to a 9/5? https://padlet.com/Excelerate/2uv7x396akisjwl6/wish/1893950294 Depending on where you end up working within the creative industry you may find that you still work a 9/5, at least to begin with. At Flux we do something more flexible, I guess you could call in 9ish/5ish but you have to take into account that our clients don't as they are in industries that are 9/5. We also look at the value of a project to the client, rather than the hours worked on it (Mark).]]> 2021-11-16 12:22:25 UTC https://padlet.com/Excelerate/2uv7x396akisjwl6/wish/1893950294 Interior designer- what date will their new consent store be ready? https://padlet.com/Excelerate/2uv7x396akisjwl6/wish/1893958864 We are aiming to launch the second week of December and take advantage of the holiday season. ]]> 2021-11-16 12:27:11 UTC https://padlet.com/Excelerate/2uv7x396akisjwl6/wish/1893958864 what is it like inside the workplace? what is it like inside the workplace - are people around you really supportive and encouraging and how often does it take for you to get into the workplace environment? https://padlet.com/Excelerate/2uv7x396akisjwl6/wish/1893965182 The creative industry is like any other industry in that matter, you can find supportive people, great colleagues and mentors. However, you will also find very competitive people and challenging clients or contractors that make your job a bit harder, focus on those who bring you value.
I started working before I even graduated, it was an internship at an Italian brand that designs kitchens and furniture. How fast do you start working will depend on you. (Claudia)

I agree with Claudia that the industry can be both supportive and competitive, which is a good thing as it all helps you improve. No matter what workplace setting you are in, creative or otherwise, and try to gain something from it, but don't worry if you don't think you are, you will anyway even though you don't realise it because every moment you are gaining experience. Don't be too hard on yourself either, don't expect to get into it straight away, get in a mindset of achievable goals and you will get there (Mark).]]> 2021-11-16 12:30:39 UTC https://padlet.com/Excelerate/2uv7x396akisjwl6/wish/1893965182 How long would I have to be in college for to be a beautician? https://padlet.com/Excelerate/2uv7x396akisjwl6/wish/1893972416 I completed a HND Beauty therapy course, this was 2 full years but I think they have changed the course now and they do up to NVQ level 4 https://www.nescol.ac.uk/courses/beauty-therapy/ (Emma)]]> 2021-11-16 12:34:46 UTC https://padlet.com/Excelerate/2uv7x396akisjwl6/wish/1893972416 How do I get into this industry? https://padlet.com/Excelerate/2uv7x396akisjwl6/wish/1893975880 By not being afraid to use your imagination and show that you have a passion for being creative. By staying true to yourself and why you want to be in the industry. By applying yourself and proving you are good at what you do (Mark).

Get as much work experience as possible - offer to work for free and listen and learn from the people around you. If you’re keen on a career in journalism or PR you could also volunteer to help with a community newsletter or create some social media content for a small charity. In terms of qualifications, many people either study a relevant subject at college or university (RGU and Nescol both have communications courses) or choose to do a post-graduate course or training programme. Work placements are part of the RGU courses so make the most of opportunities to meet people and take their business cards as you never know when you may need a contact! (Shona)]]> 2021-11-16 12:36:44 UTC https://padlet.com/Excelerate/2uv7x396akisjwl6/wish/1893975880 What subjects and skills you would need https://padlet.com/Excelerate/2uv7x396akisjwl6/wish/1893982450 Regards subjects the most obvious one is of course Art but I also use English when it comes to research and copy writing. Surprisingly I use Maths quite a lot, not just for direct mathematical problems but for a method of problem solving in general, such as spotting patterns, interpreting data and breaking things down into more manageable pieces. Sorry to say but your teachers are right, algebra is important! 

When it comes to skills creativity and imagination are key but you also need the technical ability to be able to make those work. Also one of the most valuable skills is communicating, whether that is being able to explain your thinking or to gain what you need from a client (Mark).

We need people with a very high standard of English and subjects like Modern Studies are also very relevant. An interest in current affairs, knowledge of the news and a keen interest in social media and what makes good content are all great skills! (Shona)]]> 2021-11-16 12:40:16 UTC https://padlet.com/Excelerate/2uv7x396akisjwl6/wish/1893982450 what drives so many people to change their careers to be in the creative industry? https://padlet.com/Excelerate/2uv7x396akisjwl6/wish/1893996450 I honestly don't know, I have always wanted to be in the creative industry. I can imagine they think it sounds more interesting, more fun, a bit cooler to say they are a creative...and not going to lie it is all of that!!! Maybe they think it will be easier, if so they are in for a shock. Whatever the reason, if it means the creative industry becomes stronger then it can only be a good thing (Mark).

I honestly don't know if this statement is true. However, when you are part of the creative industry, your work is not only a thing that you do during the week and get paid for, but is also your passion, is part of who you are. In order to be successful in this industry you need to be true to yourself and be comfortable with who you are, many people find it more fulfilling than other jobs, at least that's my experience. (Claudia)]]> 2021-11-16 12:47:37 UTC https://padlet.com/Excelerate/2uv7x396akisjwl6/wish/1893996450 Where is the best place to look to find all the jobs available in this sector? Do they all have something to do with art? https://padlet.com/Excelerate/2uv7x396akisjwl6/wish/1896422918 It has been far too many years to mention since I was looking for a job, lets just say I didn't have the internet to help. I think regardless the same approach applies, get out there and make yourself known, don't be afraid to say "hey, look at what I can do", in my day that was hauling my portfolio around, today use the channels you feel most comfortable using just as long as you get noticed. At Flux we always admire initiative and a direct approach, you may no be the right fit right then but you will be remembered (Mark).]]> 2021-11-17 09:32:56 UTC https://padlet.com/Excelerate/2uv7x396akisjwl6/wish/1896422918 What are some main subjects I need? https://padlet.com/Excelerate/2uv7x396akisjwl6/wish/1908213335 Hello :) Please see response to this question under Banff Academy question "What subjects and skills  you would need" :)]]> 2021-11-23 11:50:05 UTC https://padlet.com/Excelerate/2uv7x396akisjwl6/wish/1908213335 how can I get into singing and acting? https://padlet.com/Excelerate/2uv7x396akisjwl6/wish/1908290059 Hello :), please have a look at Nick's response to this questions under the Banff Academy column. ]]> 2021-11-23 12:39:52 UTC https://padlet.com/Excelerate/2uv7x396akisjwl6/wish/1908290059 Where is the best college to go to interior design? Also what subjects do you need to take for architecture and interior design? https://padlet.com/Excelerate/2uv7x396akisjwl6/wish/1908298466 These are the top Interior Design Schools in the UK:
  • Royal College of Art
  • Chelsea College of Arts
  • The Interior Design School London
  • Kingston University London
  • The Glasgow School of Art
  • University of Brighton
  • Ravensbourne
  • Middlesex University
  • University of East London
  • University of Westminster
These are the top Interior Design Schools if you are looking to study abroad:
  • Pratt Institute, New York
  • Savannah College of Art and Design
  • Rhode Island School of Design
  • Florence Design Academy, Florence
  • New York School of Interior Design, New York
  • Visual College of Art & Design, Vancouver
  • Whitehouse Institute of Design, Australia
  • RMIT University, Melbourne
  • Dublin Institute of Design, Dublin
Regarding the subjects, a mixture of arts/humanities and maths/science.
English language, design, photography and mathematics with calculus are a few examples. Many universities ask for a portfolio of work as well. (Claudia)
]]> 2021-11-23 12:44:18 UTC https://padlet.com/Excelerate/2uv7x396akisjwl6/wish/1908298466 How do you get into acting? https://padlet.com/Excelerate/2uv7x396akisjwl6/wish/1908298953 Hello :), please have a look at Nick's response to this questions under the Banff Academy column. ]]> 2021-11-23 12:44:35 UTC https://padlet.com/Excelerate/2uv7x396akisjwl6/wish/1908298953 what jobs are available for people that like art? https://padlet.com/Excelerate/2uv7x396akisjwl6/wish/1908301216 Try using this resource and put Art and Design in the search box https://www.myworldofwork.co.uk/tools/subject-choices  or you might find this useful https://www.ucas.com/explore/subjects/art-and-design

[Allison, SDS]

Art in school teaches you many skills which are relevant to so many jobs that are available out there! Think about some of these skills for example:
Creativity - to come up with concepts and compositions
Precision and observation skills - when you draw portraits or objects from life
Analytical skills - When you draw using different colours, tones and forms you show the the ability to take in and understand information before you put it down on the page
Visual communication skills - showing a message, feeling or meaning through image
Editing - understanding when you've done enough or over done something in your artwork
There is so many skills attached to art, which are all transferrable into different job roles so when you look at any job description you think you might want to apply for, remember to think carefully about the skills involved in all of your subjects. 

I went to art school at Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art and Design to study Illustration. I learned to draw better during that time of course, but the other fundamental skills I learned while doing that helped lead me to becoming a Service Designer. (Claire)


]]> 2021-11-23 12:45:54 UTC https://padlet.com/Excelerate/2uv7x396akisjwl6/wish/1908301216 Gaming - What type of money does someone who writes scripts for video games make and what qualifications do you need for this? https://padlet.com/Excelerate/2uv7x396akisjwl6/wish/1908766514 My suggestion would be to check a job comparison website - www.glassdoor.co.uk for example, where you can find the salaries for all kinds of different jobs and even narrow it down by location as well.]]> 2021-11-23 15:58:42 UTC https://padlet.com/Excelerate/2uv7x396akisjwl6/wish/1908766514 Game Development - what qualifications will i need to become a game developer? I can make simple games on 'unreal engine' but i am still learning? https://padlet.com/Excelerate/2uv7x396akisjwl6/wish/1910281402
Hello:)  Please see the Digital Technologies Padlet - as Henry (who studied Game Design) has responded to a similar question under Banff Academy - "What skills are needed for Game-soft engineer / Game Development " You may wish to add more questions on the other Padlet :)]]> 2021-11-24 10:01:38 UTC https://padlet.com/Excelerate/2uv7x396akisjwl6/wish/1910281402 Is it hard to become an actor and how long will it take https://padlet.com/Excelerate/2uv7x396akisjwl6/wish/1910296182 Hello :) please have a look at the response to this question from Nick (ITV) under Banff Academy.]]> 2021-11-24 10:10:38 UTC https://padlet.com/Excelerate/2uv7x396akisjwl6/wish/1910296182 What qualifications are needed for the creative industries? https://padlet.com/Excelerate/2uv7x396akisjwl6/wish/1910297244 Depends on which area of the creative sector you can get further information here https://www.myworldofwork.co.uk/my-career-options/job-categories#job-category-design-arts-and-crafts or information here https://www.creativescotland.com/explore

[Allison, SDS]

]]> 2021-11-24 10:11:17 UTC https://padlet.com/Excelerate/2uv7x396akisjwl6/wish/1910297244 How do you get an agent for drama acting? https://padlet.com/Excelerate/2uv7x396akisjwl6/wish/1914084875 2021-11-26 10:04:32 UTC https://padlet.com/Excelerate/2uv7x396akisjwl6/wish/1914084875 I've made this logo for my business and its called hence guru. Is there anything I need to work on? islaelliott https://padlet.com/Excelerate/2uv7x396akisjwl6/wish/1926984370 First off it is a great start, the simplicity of it and contrast in colours works really well. When we work with clients on creating a logo we start with why. Why they are doing what they are doing, beyond just making money. From there does their 'why' connect to the name that have chosen so that it has meaning. Then using that as a direction so that the colours, typefaces and any graphics they choose are also connected, so that there is a reason they are there, so they have a purpose, so they tell a story. To refine your logo I would look at all that, ask yourself why you have chosen everything, does it all connect and flow, is it a true representation of your business and why you are doing it. From a technical point of view, consider where the logo will be used and seen, will the fine detail on the tiger  work at a distance or at a small size. Again a great start, enjoy working on it! (Mark)

I love the combination of colours!. I share Mark's insights on the process of creating a logo. Keep in mind that your brain completes words, check the Tour de France logo to understand what I mean, it has a shape of a cyclist and you can read Tour de France. You have in your logo an H and a tiger head (circular shape), just keep that in mind ;). (Clau)]]> 2021-12-03 09:22:31 UTC https://padlet.com/Excelerate/2uv7x396akisjwl6/wish/1926984370 Is freelancing a difficult job? https://padlet.com/Excelerate/2uv7x396akisjwl6/wish/1930708540 2021-12-06 09:25:49 UTC https://padlet.com/Excelerate/2uv7x396akisjwl6/wish/1930708540 Is head of film a stressful job? https://padlet.com/Excelerate/2uv7x396akisjwl6/wish/1930712708 2021-12-06 09:28:53 UTC https://padlet.com/Excelerate/2uv7x396akisjwl6/wish/1930712708