Lacey Waterman, Class of 2002
Creative Director of Strand Studio, Lacey Waterman founded her company with the mission of creating a connected vision between design and storytelling for both up-and-coming and established brands. She credits Ryman Arts with kickstarting her drive to pursue art as a career.
“The first time I applied to Ryman I was turned away, but I didn’t let that stop me from applying the following year. I was so excited for my first critique, the car ride from Encino to USC felt like a lifetime. I was sure I would get a pat on the back, but instead I was seriously critiqued for the first time, not as a kid, but as an adult. These critiques motivated me and pushed me toward achieving my goals as a serious artist. Ryman showed me that my hobby could be turned into a way of life and career.
Once I got a taste of the curriculum at Ryman, there was no turning back. I was so excited to pursue art full-time, that I took night classes in order to graduate high school a year early as a junior. I was lucky to have a support system around me that shielded me from the obstacles that come with being a young artist. It’s not until I reflect back on it that I realize how insane I must have sounded when I told people I wanted to start college at the age of sixteen. Without Ryman and the support of my family, I never would have had the experience or confidence to apply to art colleges a year early…While my path as an artist has shifted as I’ve gained more experience, my goal has always been the same: make a career out of my passions and that’s exactly what I’m doing. It’s not always easy, but it’s certainly exciting and deeply fulfilling.
My advice to current students would be to trust your gut and treat everyone with the utmost respect. The creative community seems large at first, but the longer you’re immersed in it, the smaller it becomes. You’ll make mistakes along the way, but be sure to learn from them. If you ever find yourself in a situation where you feel stuck, ask for help and seek out new opportunities. If you stay focused on the big picture and try not to sweat the small stuff, you’ll do just fine!”
Lacey has spent over 15 years working with companies like Partners&Spade, Red Antler, Pentagram, Media Arts Lab, Google Creative Lab, Mother, Droga5 and TBWA/Chiat/Day. For the past five years she has been leading Strand Studio, working with clients such as Ollie, GoPuff, Amazon, Floravere, The Only Jane, and ManyPets to name a few. She earned her BFA in Advertising from Art Center College of Design, and her MFA in Graphic Design from Yale University.