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.
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.
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.
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