Year 12 Visual Communication and Design students from BSSC—as well as students from Victory Christian College—had the opportunity to hear from a successful designer this morning at the Bendigo Art Gallery.
Dale Hardiman (Class of 2008) admits that back in Year 11 and 12, school wasn’t exactly his ‘thing’—however, by studying art subjects during his time at Bendigo Senior, Dale developed an interest in design and has been doing what he loves ever since.
A perfect example of creating a dream career, Dale was encouraged by many along the way; a stand-out supporter being much-admired art teacher at BSSC, Margaret Standen, who tragically passed away in 2017.
“Marg Standen—she lifted me up—and that really encouraged me to study further.”
After completing an Associate Degree in Design (Furniture) and Bachelor of Design (Industrial) at RMIT, Dale co-founded furniture and object brand Dowel Jones with fellow RMIT graduate, Adam Lynch.
“There were no real jobs in what we wanted to do,” says Dale. “I’ve never worked for anyone but myself, since I graduated from Uni.”
The pair have built a successful business from their love of design, and, over the past decade, Dowel Jones have won numerous awards for pieces both nationally and internationally.
“We’re designers—we’re always thinking about design—and business is just the second component of what we do.”
The artist has exhibited work all over the globe and collaborated with some iconic brands. His ability to think laterally and join forces with other creatives has seen him achieve some incredible things.
Dale provided today’s Year 12 art students with valuable insight into what it’s like to be a professional designer and also encouraged students to reach out to artists they admire that are working in the space they aspire to work in.
“The design community is responsive: reach out and ask advice to someone who’s already doing it.”
After hearing from Dale, students had the opportunity to tour the gallery and collect inspiration for their practical folio work.
A huge thanks to Dale and our friends at the Bendigo Art Gallery for organising the session.
