A big congrats to Alma Santang (@almasantang), one of our 30 TDK Awards winners' for 2020. A Monash University graduate from Melbourne, their work was chosen by Paul McKie from @autumn.studio in Brisbane: 'It feels like Alma is pushing some design boundaries, which really excites me to see what is yet to come. Her ‘Museum of the Invisible’ project is amazing — the consideration of type, image treatments and colour palette, really makes you connect to the story behind it. All of her projects have an awesome meshing of styles which really makes them stand out from the norm'. We asked Alma to answer a few questions for next years TDK Awards hopefuls.
What do you wish you’d known now when you started your design course?
That resources are everywhere and how it’s so important to be involved in the design scene and make those meaningful connections.
What originally lead you into design, and how has that changed - what do you want to do/ are doing now?
Back in high school, I was a part of a team that was in charge of designing marketing materials for the school events, and my interest in design started there! At the start, it was just something that I liked doing as a hobby, but as I progressed through uni, I realised how vital & crucial design is, and how it holds power to change or create an impact on something or a situation if you really want it to! I am now working as an in-house designer while also working on other projects on the side. In the near future, I’d want to be able to be in a different kind of work environment, preferably a part of a design studio!
Any hot tips for getting ahead at uni?
Be confident to voice your opinion! Don’t ever compare your work to any of your mates, take it as inspiration or motivation instead! I was always interested to know more about the projects my friends were doing and kept an archive of what I find very inspiring. Also always try to be vocal and build a good relationship with your lecturers or tutors. Be involved!
What do you love about the design scene in your city and what companies are on your dream list to work or collaborate with?
I am originally from Indonesia, but being able to live & breathe in Melbourne’s design scene is an opportunity I’ll never take for granted. I love how bold Melbourne is. Everyone always seems to come up with exciting ideas. And from what I’ve seen, there is a really strong community vibe here. People are always encouraged to grow. There are so many events, workshops, and talk shows that allow you to do that! I think it’s also very inspiring to see so many people trying to be more environmentally & socially conscious when it comes to creating. The companies on my dream list would be Confetti Studio, Paper Stone Scissors, What The Studio, Studio Hi Ho, Makna Creative, Maika, the list goes on.
Always try to be vocal and build a good relationship with your lecturers or tutors. Be involved!
Where do you see your career in 5 years?
In 5 years, I’d want to see myself continue learning and growing. When it comes to my career, I want to be a part of a design studio that is making real changes in this world. I’d like to see myself being able to contribute to this world through design.
2020 for you in a sentence
Time to refocus my energy on what matters.
Where to find Alma Santang online.
Instagram: @almasantang
Website: almasantang.com
