KATE SCOTT STEWART
The Culture of Things + The Sensing of Place
Drawing from my background in advertising and branding, my professional journey has evolved into a realm where design seamlessly intertwines with visual storytelling. This transition manifests as a distinctive fusion of my love for folklore and folk culture with a contemporary design philosophy, and a deep appreciation for historical aesthetics.
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My passion for speculative design, storytelling, and research drives me to craft narratives that transcend conventional limits. Utilizing my extensive historical and folklore knowledge, I strategically communicate intricate subjects like climate change and environmental systems, distilling them into visually compelling experiences.
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As a dedicated professional designer, storyteller, and researcher, I aspire to elevate design beyond mere visual engagement. Each piece serves as a conduit for profound narratives, fostering comprehension and instigating positive change. Grounded through a psychological and sociological lens, my narratives explore rich cultural landscapes, delving into the profound depths of material culture and symbolic significance.
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In my exploration of the Arctic, Iceland, and the vast ocean, I am particularly drawn to the materialities, symbolism, and ritual found in folkloric history and storytelling. Additionally, I find inspiration in the expansive embrace of the "Celtic ring," encompassing Iceland, the Scottish Isles, Ireland, and the Faroes.
EDUCATION
2023 - 2025 Expected
Listaháskóli Íslands
(Iceland University of the Arts)
M.A. DESIGN & NEW ENVIRONMENTS
The Design & New Environments at the Iceland University of the Arts invites students to an exciting hybrid programme composed of design, media, and environmental studies.
2020 - 2023
Háskóli Íslands
(University of Iceland)
M.A. LITERATURE, CULTURE, & MEDIA
Focus on visual & experiential storytelling, Icelandic & Arctic culture, and media
Thesis: Selling the Scent-sory: An Exploration of the Power of Storytelling Techniques in Fischersund's 'Authentic Icelandic' Brand
2014 - 2016
VCU Brandcenter
Richmond, VA, USA
M.A. CREATIVE BRAND MANAGEMENT
The VCU Brandcenter has been recognized as America's number one graduate school in advertising and marketing.
- #1 Advertising Program – Creativity Magazine
- #1 Digital Media & Marketing School – Ad Age
- #1 Graduate school in advertising and marketing – O'Toole Award
- Top Advertising School – BusinessWeek
- “Widely considered the nation’s most acclaimed graduate program in advertising.” - Conde Nast Portfolio
2000 - 2005
College of Charleston
Charleston, SC, USA
B.S. PSYCHOLOGY
B.S. SOCIOLOGY