KANSAS CITY ART INSTITUTE (KCAI)
Born and raised in America’s heartland (Iowa), Rebecca Wagner knew for a long time that her career path would take a creative direction. Now, she’s a senior studying Graphic Design at KCAI and honing her skills at print design, exhibition design, branding, and writing. Her journey has given her an immense love for the technical aspects of design and production. And, though her laptop is practically attached to her body, she still finds time to develop her IRL fine art skills through illustration and painting.
WHAT MAKES YOU FEEL INSPIRED?
The fact that the world will never run out of new perspectives and new stories to tell.
WHAT AREA OR AREAS OF DESIGN ARE YOU HOPING TO WORK IN OR SPECIALIZE IN?
Event and exhibition design feel like exciting avenues to explore. I love the idea of design taking over and transforming the spaces it lives in; a testament to the power of creative expression.
WHAT IS ONE THING THAT DESIGN SCHOOL HAS TAUGHT YOU THAT YOU DID NOT EXPECT?
Being a designer is also being a showman. By that I mean: a really nice, polished, clear-cut presentation can be one of the best advocates for your project or idea. It shows a degree of care and consideration towards the audience that’s so important for building connections. A subtle—but powerful—skill.
WHO IS SOMEONE YOU LOOK UP TO IN YOUR FIELD? EITHER TODAY OR HISTORICALLY?
Aaron Horkey. His work has those hardcore levels of craftsmanship and skill you can’t help but admire.
WHAT ARE YOU READING/LISTENING TO/WATCHING?
I’m a huge horror fan! I recently watched The Boxer’s Omen (1983) and I would definitely recommend it—if you’ve got a strong stomach. Knifepoint Horror is easily one of my favorite supernatural thriller podcasts. And as for books, I’m reading The Wolfen by Whitley Strieber.
