Olivia Ewing and Lian Najarian are taking the editorial market by storm. Olivia (Liv) Ewing is the Senior Manager of Creative and Social at Aurate. Lian Najarian is the Social Media Coordinator at Tanya Taylor. Upon graduation in 2019, the duo continues to apply their knowledge of fine art and media strategy to their work, delivering exclusively curated content in partnership with fashion and beauty’s leading brands. Their creative studio Terra, can bring any creative vision to life through contemporary vision and a keen eye for design.
How did SCAD help establish your career and/or what did you take from SCAD that helped in your job search (or career)?
L: SCAD played such a big part in helping me understand how the creative process works. Before attending, I didn’t know how much work went into everything that we see every day, so it gave me a new appreciation for all creatives out there. I think this helped me in my career because I’m able to apply that knowledge to thoughtfully and effectively bring projects to life.
O: I always like to say that SCAD crafted my eye for design and taught me the importance of networking across all majors/departments/capabilities.
What was your biggest break or turning point that allowed you to be where you are now?
O: As bad as it sounds, COVID was the turning point where Lian and I saw the best opportunity to start Terra. We felt like we wanted to be creative but had limitations in our current jobs. On top of that, many brands cut their in-house creative teams, so offering a boutique studio was a great gap to fill.
L: Liv said it best. We honestly just took the plunge with Terra and didn’t look back. We’ve seen consistent interest since our launch in June 2020, so it really was the perfect time to launch.
Do you find that your success has been linear, or has it taken you to places you’ve never thought you’d be working in?
O: It absolutely has taken me to places that surprise me. I never once even took a fine jewelry class, yet it’s the industry I am now most knowledgeable in. I also never thought that I’d be working with so many different start-ups and clients at such a young age.
L: It’s definitely taken me to new places that I never dreamed of. I’ve been lucky enough to wear many different hats at Terra, at my job at Tanya Taylor, and through freelance work. It’s taught me to take on everything that comes my way and use it to grow professionally.
What is your favorite project you have worked on since leaving SCAD?
L: While I’ve had the chance to work on so many amazing projects, I think my favorite was my still life series that I did during quarantine. I was at home, having fun and creating for no one but myself. It was liberating and helped me refocus my energy on what I love most during such a scary and unpredictable time in the world.
O: The Aurate x Kerry Washington collection was hands down my pinch-me moment. I was able to art direct, produce, and manage that creative project from soup to nuts touching on the ideation of the concept, the jewelry design itself, packaging design, PR approaches, and of course, the creative direction of the photoshoot. Working with Kerry and her team was incredible and a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
What are your favorite parts about living and working in NYC?
O: I am constantly inspired by the people in this city. We are the trend-setters and early adopters of the States. I see it all here first, and I love to be a part of that bigger picture.
L: I love knowing that so many connections and resources are here. You never know who you’re going to meet or see on the street. I also really really love the museums and restaurants, because, of course.
As current SCAD students, what should we be doing now to prepare for life in the creative industry?
L: Collaborate with as many fellow students/creatives as possible. Some of my favorite projects from my time at SCAD were when I collaborated with people from all different majors. You’ll learn so much and have a portfolio that’s different from anyone else.
O: Networking, networking, networking! It truly is all about who you know. Second to that, brand yourself. You should market yourself just as you’d market a product or design.
Any words of advice for upcoming graduates about to enter the field?
O: You’re never truly ready, so take every leap of faith you can. Never live a life full of “what-ifs.”
L: Don’t be afraid to voice your opinion, create as much as you can, and trust your gut. You will do amazing things!
Words by: Olivia Ewing & Lian Najarian
Curated by Anna Vescovi
Production, styling, and casting by Terra Studio NYC
Image Credits: U Beauty SCULPT Campaign