Based in Hamilton, Naomi Johnston decided on Wintec as the stand-out institution for photography and media arts study. “I have always been a creative person and felt now was the time to get a degree.”  She has particularly enjoyed the teachers and support at Media Arts, as well as the accessible location. “We’re right in the middle of the culture of Hamilton and the arts scene.”

Gaining the skills to negotiate collaborative group projects has proved particularly valuable. As a student, Johnston established herself as a magazine editor with Blacklisted - an arts, culture and fashion magazine she started up after the 2013 Spark Festival and was able to integrate into classwork. “I am hoping that one day Blacklisted becomes a nationally recognized arts and fashion magazine that impacts our culture and gives artists of all levels a platform to springboard off.” 

Johnston continued the magazine and two years later returned to Spark festival as a graduate guest, sharing her magazine experience with students through a workshop. 

In the future Naomi would love to work as a photographer in the commercial fashion and beauty industry. “I think there is a lot of room to develop the commercial scene here in New Zealand and a lot of talent to fish for.” 

Visit Naomi's website here and follow her on Facebook here.