Written by Annelise McDonald, Vesa Lumani, Katherine Adams, and Melina Zarboulas
Creative Sparks: Lessons from the Frontlines of Art, Fashion, and Music
This spring, The Vault hosted an engaging panel discussion featuring four distinguished Midwestern industry professionals: Terrell Johnson, Marcella Kukulka, Darcy Padilla, and Josh Ray. Their diverse backgrounds and expertise in various creative industries provided attendees with a wealth of knowledge and inspiration. The event, marked by a dynamic exchange of ideas and personal anecdotes, was a testament to the power of creativity and determination in various fields that were of interest to our future generation artistic and founding members.
Terrell Johnson took the stage with a story of passion and perseverance. As the Art and Creative Director for Janet Jackson, SWGRUS, SayYoNotHello, and currently Gatorade, Terrell’s journey is rooted in his deep admiration for Janet Jackson, whom he grew up listening to. His dream of working with her came to fruition through relentless dedication and creative vision. SWGRUS, his independent multimedia magazine, reflects his commitment to celebrating the intersection of music, culture, and fashion. It’s a platform that highlights the creatives behind the scenes while appreciating the cultural significance of their work. Terrell’s insights on blending personal passion with professional achievement resonated strongly with Vault students, showing we can make personal dreams align with professional goals.
Marcella Kukulka, with her extensive experience in event management for music festivals, shared invaluable advice on navigating the unpredictable nature of the industry. Her career path has led her through a variety of roles, from working with A-list celebrities to handling tasks as mundane as ticket sales and waste management. Marcella emphasized the importance of versatility, hard work, and maintaining a positive attitude, regardless of the task at hand. She recounted an intriguing story about her spontaneous career move, which began when she closed her eyes and pointed to a spot on the map, landing in Montana. This story illustrated her willingness to embrace the unknown and find opportunities the unexpected! Her emphasis on kindness and networking also taught Vault students how personal attributes and professional connections can significantly impact one’s career trajectory.
Darcy Padilla, a distinguished photographer, journalist, and professor at the University of Wisconsin, provided a unique perspective from the academic and artistic worlds. Her role as both a practicing photographer and an educator positions her as a bridge between theoretical knowledge and practical application. Darcy’s insights encompassed the intersection of creative practice and scholarly inquiry, offering Vault students a multifaceted view of the industry.
Josh Ray, a Creative Director, fashion photo/videographer, and stylist at SVRN in Chicago, shared his experiences and inspirations, particularly his recent encounter with the late designer and UW-alum, Virgil Abloh. Josh’s reflections on meeting Abloh just weeks before his passing underscored the profound impact that influential figures can have on our professional lives. His discussion on fashion, styling, and creative direction offered practical advice for those looking to make their mark in the industry.
The conversation flowed seamlessly as the panelists engaged in a lively exchange of ideas, each building upon the insights of their peers. The dialogue highlighted the diverse paths to success in creative fields and underscored the importance of adaptability, hard work, and personal passion.
After the panel discussion, attendees had the opportunity to engage in one-on-one conversations with the panelists. Each professional generously offered personal advice and motivation, further enriching the event’s impact. The open dialogue allowed Vault members to gain personalized insights and encouragement, making the evening not just an informational session but also a deeply motivational experience.
The Vault’s latest panel event exemplified the vibrant exchange of ideas and personal stories that can drive and inspire future creatives. With a blend of industry expertise, personal anecdotes, and practical advice, the panelists provided a comprehensive look at the various pathways to success in their respective fields. The event was a reminder of the power of creativity, networking, and perseverance in achieving one’s professional dreams.
Video produced and edited by Khatib David Gandjui