Ephemeral Ruin: Rustic Utopia


Creative Director & Stylist: @wohivia
Creative Assistant & Graphic Design & Set Design: @cj_rawlinson
Photography: @photo.rubes
Garment Designer: @coelpattinson
Featured Jewellery: @themysteriousjeweller
Models: @cassiaviiola & @kelslou00 & @sickviciousworldwide & @rico.suuave


Creative Assistant - Ephemeral Ruin: Rustic Utopia is a concept photoshoot that explores the idea of what a utopia means to you. Whether this is deemed in a positive or negative outlook that is subject to the viewer. For this piece, the utopia concept is drawn from the directors impression - “My perspective of a utopian world is that the obsession with utopianism and perfection can lead to a dystopia due to an extreme or radical concept of discrimination between the ones who fit and the ones who do not. The shoot today will reflect this outlook on my version of a distorted utopian looking world vision. This is through the use of harsh objects, rustic backgrounds and atmosphere”.

My involvment in this project was Creative Assistant, Set Design and Graphic Designer. As a creative assistant on a photoshoot, my role is instrumental in bringing together the intricate pieces necessary for a seamless production. My most valued roles were scouting locations/sourcing props, ensuring that every detail aligns with the overarching concept. During the shoot itself, I become the hub of communication, bridging the gap between the photographer, models, stylists, and other crew members, ensuring everyone is on the same page and ready to execute flawlessly. I am proud to say that I was swift to resolving technical hiccups, thriving thrive in the face of adversity, always with a solution at the ready. Utimately enabling a smooth process for everyone involved. Assisting the photographer in a photoshoot is a dynamic and hands-on role that I thrive in. From the moment we arrive on set, my focus is on ensuring that every aspect of the shoot is meticulously organized and executed flawlessly. I dive into tasks like setting up equipment, adjusting lighting, and arranging props with enthusiasm and precision, knowing that these details are crucial to the final result. Throughout the shoot, I'm constantly anticipating the photographer's needs, whether it's having the right lens ready or adjusting the angle of a light to achieve the perfect mood. I also act as a bridge between the photographer and the rest of the team, facilitating clear communication and ensuring that everyone is working harmoniously towards our shared vision. My creative input is valued too; I offer suggestions and ideas that enhance the composition and storytelling of each shot. Ultimately, my role is all about supporting the photographer, allowing them to focus on their craft while I handle the logistics and details with efficiency and finesse.

The role of a creative assistant extends beyond the realm of photography and can be invaluable in various other creative fields such as filmmaking, advertising, graphic design, fashion. In each of these domains, a creative assistant plays a pivotal role in supporting the primary creative vision and ensuring the smooth execution of projects.For the filmmaking, I collaborate closely with the director, helping to brainstorm ideas, scout locations, manage schedules, and oversee production logistics. Serving as a vital link between different departments, ensuring that the director's vision is effectively translated onto the screen.

In the relation to the graphic design role on the photoshoot. I was tasked with creating a range of posters that targetted different briefs set out by the creative directore. Using imagery from the shoot and working to the directors needs I created 12 posters of 3 different style that simulated the desired outcome.

Brief 1 - To give each model a face to the shoot :  for this design I focused on spacing, giving the viewer a clear representation of each mode. While also correlating the theme of the Rustic Utopia shoot.

Brief 2 - To represent the industrial character: for this brief I wanted to elaborate on the directors view on the project and propell this image of dystopian utopia mirroring a use of harsh objects, disjointed connections and rustic atmosphere. 

Brief 3 -  To relay the ‘ephemeral’ personality of the project: focusing on the short elaborte burst that is ephermeral and present this through fugitive flash glow. SERIES 01. BRIEF - To give each model a face to the shoot.

SERIES 02. BRIEF - To represent the industrial character.
SERIES 03. BRIEF - To relay the ‘ephemeral’ personality of the project.

Projects: ❶Gaussian ❷ Orgreave ❸ Love story ❹ Recompensed ❺ Smiling is contagious ❻ Posters ❼ Rustic Utopia . Stickers . Merchandise .