Meet the Mentees: Callai Watson
Today we chat to Callai Watson - a Fashion Communications student, studying at Heriot-Watt Design School. As part of DMC’s yearly mentoring programme DMC FUTURES, Callai is undertaking the ‘Music Journalism’ Mentorship with Tom Johnson, founder of the incredibly beautiful music journal, Gold Flake Paint.
In this mentorship, Callai is working with Tom to learn more about learning how to write a brief and work with an editor, gain key insight into the day-to-day operation of a printed journal and online blog and make new connections with the music and publishing industry in Scotland.
Find out more about Callai and her mentorship below!
Hi Callai! Tell us a little bit about yourself..
Hiya! I’m Callai Watson, 20 years old from Dumfries. Music has always been prominent in my life and I continue to make it my main source of inspiration. My favourite tune of all time is Don’t Stop the Music by Yarbrough & Peoples, and my current favourite album is Wu Hen by Kamaal Williams. I’m currently collecting and discovering new magazines. Recently I came across Record magazine which is now my main inspiration for projects at university where I’m studying Fashion Communication.
You’re currently studying for a degree in Fashion Communication at Heriot-Watt Design School – what sparked your interest in this field and how does it fit in with your passion for music?
For years I’ve always had an interest in fashion yet design never really appealed to me. Communication design explores photography, graphics and film - all the things I love in one ! I was brought up around music and at the back of my mind I always knew it would come into my work. This course lets me bring my love for soul/jazz music and fashion together, with my current projects exploring the underground music scene through black culture and women in music. My women in music publication explores all avenues of the industry from musicians, DJ’s, graphic designers and collectives.
During the lockdown, you created prints to sell online – do you feel it was important for you to stay creative during the pandemic?
Lockdown was a massive shock. I was really used to creating daily and wanted to use this time to improve my skillset. I watched hundreds of youtube videos to learn more photoshop skills and gave myself briefs to work from. I took the time to educate myself on Black Lives Matter and knew I wanted to do something to help. I raised money selling prints for The Stephen Lawrence Charitable Trust - an amazing organisation that helps young people from disadvantaged backgrounds into a career of their choice. I want to continue work with this charity as well as amplify black voices in any future projects I do.
How important do you think it is for people to engage with local projects to further their own skillset or career?
Massively ! I was lucky enough to do some work experience with Colin Tennant at Spring Fling when I was just starting out in photography. This experience helped me gain so much confidence and has benefited me loads throughout the years. Colin is still a mentor figure and supports everything I do. Making connections and taking any opportunity is really important, and with the accessibility in a smaller town it’s the best way to start your career.
Are there are local or national acts on your radar right now?
The Glasgow music scene is booming at the minute. Corto Alto are one of the best collectives I’ve ever seen live with the lead Liam Shortall from Dumfries too. Their EP Live from 435, Vol.2 being one of my favourite releases of 2019. I was lucky enough to interview and photograph Kitti, an amazing jazz singer also based in Glasgow, for my recent women in music publication. Kitti has also just won Best Breakthrough Artist at The Scottish Music Awards. Joesef is another artist I’ve been obsessed with this year - The Sun Is Up Forever was my ultimate lockdown tune.
What are your thoughts on the music scene in Dumfries? Have there been any stand out nights for you in the town?
Dumfries has always had a great scene in my opinion. I remember growing up around the time of The Scottish Soulful Weekender, with acts like Motor City Drum Ensemble and Jocelyn Brown playing at the Cairndale - I still can’t quick believe they played in my home town. Festivals like Wickerman, Electric Fields and Eden have been at our door step for over 15 years and I’ve been lucky enough to experience them all. There are way more opportunities for creativity in smaller towns, and I think DMC has been an amazing hub for this. DMC 2018 showcased local artists including Franky’s Evil Party accompanied by a projector installation of moving visuals. I had just moved to Glasgow and coming home to see this experimental creativity was so inspiring.
Some of Callai’s recent work with Gold Flake Paint to advertise their latest issue.
What are you most looking forward to in your mentorship? Are there any specific things you’re hoping to work on with Tom?
This mentorship has been my first step into the music side of the industry. I adore Gold Flake Paint magazine and feel very lucky to have this opportunity to learn from someone at this level. I really want to take this time to observe and take in as much as I can. The tasks I’ve been given already from creating graphics to finding upcoming artists has made me realise how much I want to go into music. I’m really excited for what’s to come.
How would you like your career to progress over the next few years?
I think more than ever it’s really important to build connections in the community. I absolutely love working with people and it’s my goal to collaborate more with friends and fellow creatives on projects in the future. During these unprecedented times the creative industry is daunting, and life itself, but theres lots of opportunities ahead and I think the new norm can be exciting. One thing I always remember to do is keep the music playing, and one day we will dance again.