UNIVERSITY OF THE ARTS
Genevieve Wittrock is a senior studying graphic design. Growing up, her sensibility was influenced by her parents who both worked at the intersection of science and ethics. She has always felt empowered to engage in necessary conversations surrounding politics, technology, and social justice — either at the dinner table or through her many creative outlets. She has always been heavily influenced by photojournalism and the subtleties of street photography. As a “digital native” designer, she’s heavily tapped into internet culture and wants to explore more of the ethical implications of technology to foster a more inclusive design practice.
WHAT MAKES YOU FEEL INSPIRED?
Everything, but mainly people. Spending time with other creatives throwing out ideas, listening to each other’s projects, and discussing things that provoke us is a tool I use in my own process to better define what I want out of whatever I’m working on. When projects seem to get bigger and more complex, the energy in those rooms alone are enough for me to commit myself with a renewed sense of inspiration, perspective, and purpose.
WHAT AREA OR AREAS OF DESIGN ARE YOU HOPING TO WORK IN OR SPECIALIZE IN?
In general, I’d like to be working somewhere that combines cultural criticism and design. Art direction or editorial design for creative campaigns.
WHAT IS ONE THING THAT DESIGN SCHOOL HAS TAUGHT YOU THAT YOU DID NOT EXPECT?
How human design really is; how entirely dependent it is on collaboration, conversation, and connection.
WHO IS SOMEONE YOU LOOK UP TO IN YOUR FIELD? EITHER TODAY OR HISTORICALLY?
Tracy Ma. And while he wasn’t a designer so to speak, I’ve always admired the creative storytelling and legacy of Anthony Bourdain.
WHAT ARE YOU READING, LISTENING TO, WATCHING?
Since I can’t ever commit myself to one book at a time, I’m currently juggling This Is How They Tell Me The World Ends by Nicole Perlroth and Herland by Charlotte Perkins Gilman. Listening to: Sometimes I Might Be Introvert by Little Simz. Watching: Broad City (for the 10th time by now)