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As a one-woman design studio Lauren Wickware RGD partners with individual artists, internationally-recognized corporations and cultural institutions to create a broad range of materials with a focus on publication design.
Q: How long have you been volunteering with RGD, and in what capacity?
I have been volunteering at the RGD since 2011, both as a Provisional RGD and Certified RGD Member. My volunteer work with the RGD has primarily focused on supporting students—both as a portfolio reviewer on several occasions, as well as a mentor as part of the RGD’s Mentorship Program. I have also had the opportunity to moderate two amazing panels for RGD, one that was virtual on the Future of Book Design in 2016 and the other that took place in Toronto on Design in Cultural Institutions in 2018.
Q: What made you want to get involved with RGD?
I wanted to support RGD’s initiatives to foster an inclusive and supportive design community. I studied graphic design outside of Canada so the RGD has been a way for me to become more involved with the design community in the Greater Hamilton and Toronto Area by meeting other volunteers and graphic designers.
Q: Of the RGD initiatives you have contributed to, what are you most proud of?
I am proud of all of my volunteer work with the RGD! It is always great to provide support to young designers—seeing a young designer gain confidence and further their career is a great reward for volunteering.
Q: What is your most memorable experience as an RGD volunteer?
My most memorable experience as an RGD volunteer was moderating a panel on the Future of Book Design as many of my idols were on the panel—it was nerve-wracking! Even though I was nervous, it was exciting to participate in a panel with others who are so passionate about what I am passionate about—book design.
Future By Design: The Future of Book Design; Moderator: Lauren Wickware RGD, Panelists: Steven Heller, Barbara deWilde, & Abbott Miller
Q: What have you gained from being an RGD volunteer, and why would you recommend it to other members who might be thinking of getting involved?
I would highly recommend volunteering with the RGD, it has helped me become part of the local design community, which in turn has furthered my design career, as well as generated many friendships and opportunities for collaboration.
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