Laoise* Wright

Created by

Laoise Wright — UX/UI Design

Year 2024

Overview

Emerging and independent artists are navigating a creative industry that is often financially unsustainable, creatively isolating, and inaccessible.

Research

Through primary research, participants expressed that established artists and high-profile institutions often create a divide between mainstream artists and emerging, beginner, or digital artists. Many felt there is a strong sense of judgement within the industry, if you do not have the "right" degree, connections, aesthetic, or experience, you are often overlooked or dismissed.

For beginner artists, there are also significant barriers to entering the professional art community. Exhibition entry fees, transport costs, printing, framing, and ongoing financial pressure make participation difficult from the outset. Artists repeatedly pay to submit work while facing frequent rejection, and even acceptance can come with additional expenses.

APPROACH

In response to these findings, my project focuses on creating Elevare Studios, a platform and creative studio designed to support emerging and independent artists across a range of mediums. The project aims to make the art world more accessible, connected, and sustainable through affordable creative spaces, low-to-no-cost studio access, shared creative environments, interactive digital exhibitions, and workshops led by industry professionals.

Creative

With this in mind, the visual design approach specifically responds to the challenges digital artists face in being taken seriously within the traditional art world.

The project combines pixel art aesthetics with traditional artistic elements, alongside vibrant neon colour palettes, to reinforce the intersection between digital and physical creative practices.

This contrast aims to challenge perceptions surrounding digital art while celebrating emerging forms of creative expression.

IMPACT

The project aims to create a more inclusive and supportive creative environment where emerging artists feel empowered to participate, collaborate, and grow professionally.

By reducing financial and social barriers, Elevare Studios encourages broader access to creative opportunities while fostering stronger connections within the artistic community.