Graeme manages Synapse Festival
Graeme Wilkinson, one of our BA (Hons) Graphic Design students undertook a project for the SYNAPSE Festival arranged through the University.
The Festival
The SYNAPSE visual arts festival profiles the work of emerging artists from the three cities and counties of Derbyshire, Leicestershire and Nottinghamshire in order to create an environment where talent is supported and creativity is allowed to flourish. The festival has been funded by the Arts Council, England and created in partnership with Derby University, Nottingham Trent University, DeMontfort University, Deda, New Art Exchange, Nottingham and BBC big screens.
The selection
Graeme was selected after an initial call out through the university and the subsequent submission of an application and interview process. His experience in industry and insight into professional needs made him a successful candidate for the post.
Graeme's role
Graeme was appointed as Creative and Marketing Director for the Festival which involved recruiting volunteers, film students, photography students and web designers to create a complete marketing team. He managed his whole team effectively, utilising his teams' specialist skills and producing the graphic design work himself.
Alongside managing his team he has worked with printers, clients, artists and sponsors, monitored the budget, arranged insurance, transport and events, all of which have developed his skills in preparation for completion of the Derby Award.
During the project, Graeme was able to produce, posters, business cards, compliment slips, catalogues, bags, leaflets, banners, signage and mapping systems, plus with the help of his team, a video documentary, photography for press releases and a fully functional website. Graeme also managed the internet marketing which was completed at minimal cost through sponsors and social networking sites.
Over the two week period, Graeme was solely responsible for the management of the Synapse Festival and managed all aspects allowing it to run smoothly resolving problems which arose.
Saira Lloyd, Festival Organiser commented:
"Graeme's leadership qualities were tested while I was away over the past couple of weeks and he was asked to take over the management of the festival in my absence. I was confident that he was capable of 'running the show' on his own and he did so with confidence. Graeme managed to resolve a number of awkward issues over this time. I was again impressed with his capabilities and initiative.
"I cannot speak highly enough of Graeme's contribution in making the Synapse Festival a success."
Experienced freelancer
Throughout Graeme's university experience he has also worked on a freelance basis working with over 50 clients to date including; John Moores University, Myriad Theatre Company and Ardour Creative Arts. He is currently undertaking the exciting project of rebranding Ardour Creative Arts.
Graeme added: "My University skills have allowed me to undertake further freelance work with more confidence and a higher level of quality control."
Read comments from artists that have worked with Graeme