Gemma recently joined Story as our newest Event Executive, she comes to us with a wealth of experience from many creatives industries and actually started her career in costume design for TV, Film and West End Theatre.
Where did you get your inspiration from when working in the TV / creative world?
I surrounded myself with any costume, art or fashion book I could get my hands on. I never threw away a sketch book and kept a scrap book of previous things that were on Vogue. Searching Getty images and browsing Pinterest also helped. I would then start collating key images, phrases and words, slowly building up mood-boards to create each character.
Do you have a favourite designer or artist that inspires you?
My favourite artist is Antony Gormley. One of the best exhibitions I have ever been to was one called Human, held in the Forte di Belvedere in Florence, Italy. More than 100 sculptures were scattered around the old fort, surrounded with panoramic views of Florence. It was breath-taking and extremely inspiring.
Is there anything you predict that is going to take off in events this year?
Virtual reality is going to be huge, technology is taking over the world! At our last London Summer Event Show, we saw huge interest from the event agents and event buyers in our stands featuring virtual reality.
Where in London do you feel most inspired?
The V&A. When studying for my art degree, I used to go and draw in the V&A nearly every weekend. The atmosphere is extremely calming, creative and engaging. I think that they do the best exhibitions in London. Whether visiting a new exhibition they have on, or even just wandering around their permanent collections, you always discover something new!
