We ask Abi, Owner of Tangerine Creative and RMIT alum, six questions about being a business owner.
1. What did you study at RMIT and what attracted you to that program?
I studied a Bachelor of Communication Design (Graphic design). I was a mature aged student and had previously been studying at a different university in a similar degree but wasn't challenged by it. I googled the best design universities in Australia and RMIT was top of the list. I applied and to my delight, got in!
2. What is your business all about?
Tangerine Creative is a zesty approach to design, photography and all things creative. The work varies from day-to-day, and I love how none of the projects I work on are the same. At the core of all of my work, the aim is to help bring my client's creative visions to life. Perhaps they need new headshots or want to capture special moments with their family. I'll be there to photograph and help guide their vision, all whilst having a great time! Perhaps their branding needs a little refresh, we can explore options and come up with something perfect for them! It's all exciting and it's all done with a smile. I love what I do!
3. Where do you see your business in 10 years’ time?
Hopefully, my little business is still plodding along nicely. So far my career journey hasn’t been linear and I expect that this won’t change. I like variety and I hope that wherever Tangerine Creative is in 10 years I’m still having fun and creating work I'm proud of.
4. How has studying at RMIT prepared you to run your business?
RMIT really levelled up my skillset and showed me that if I want to do well I need to have a point of difference and not sell myself short.
5. What advice would you have offered yourself when you first started your business?
I really jumped in blind with this little biz. I knew nothing about invoicing, TAX and all of the backend side of being freelance. I know now that organisation is key and I’ve also learned to say no to work that doesn't suit my style and expression.
6. Where do you find inspiration for your designs?
I adore photographing humans just being humans. There is something so wonderful about capturing cheeky moments and absolute joy. I love real authentic smiles. One goal of mine is to make sure that the person/people I’m photographing are comfortable before we even begin. Being photographed can be nerve wracking so it’s important to me that each person feels safe and comfortable. Being photographed should leave you feeling empowered and a bit sexy!
Alumni bio
Abi Trewartha
Creative - abigail.trewartha@live.com.au
Abi Trewartha studied a Bachelor of Design (Communication Design) from 2017-2019 at RMIT. Abi started Tangerine Creative, a zesty approach to design, photography and all things creative. Her work varies from day-to-day, and she loves how none of the projects she works on are the same. At the core of all her work is the aim to help bring her client's creative visions to life. Perhaps they need new headshots or want to capture special moments with their family. Abi will be there to photograph and help guide their vision, all whilst having a great time! Perhaps their branding needs a little refresh, we can explore options and come up with something perfect for them! It's all exciting and it's all done with a smile. Abi loves what she does!
