Sylvestre is a participant in the 2017 Creative Arts and Design Professional Practicum from the University of New South Wales. Sylvestre is studying a Bachelor of Design (Digital Media). Sylvestre received a $3,000 New Colombo Plan Mobility Grant to support his participation in this program.
Q: Why did you decide to undertake the ACICIS program?
I wanted to explore and expand my abilities as an artist. Indonesia is a country I’ve never been to before, and I’m all about new experiences. I signed up looking for adventure and to gain credit for my university studies.
Q: How will the Professional Practicum benefit or influence your future career?
I am learning new modes of thinking and experimenting with different mediums. Being thrown into a foreign country while at the same time working a full-time role is a responsibility that will benefit me in my career as an artist– it is a challenge that is very rewarding.
Q: What organisation will you be interning with? (Explain your roles and responsibilities)
I am at Lanting Animation Studio. It is a multi-disciplinary studio composed of talented artists specialising in different mediums. I was brought in initially with the view to work as an animator, but have worked with wood sculpture, illustration, social media content creation, commercial work and music.
Q: How have you found the work culture of your host organisation? How is it different to work experience in Australia?
Compared to typical Australian work culture, my experience feels a lot more family-like. My coworkers are very casual and relaxed. When we hang outside of office hours it feels genuine, and not a canned team-building corporate exercise. It’s been pretty tight and I enjoy my time here.
Q: What do you like to do in your spare time in Indonesia?
I’ve been to quite a few live music events.
Q: Would you like to return to work in Indonesia again in future?
Fo sho. The people I’ve met have been very friendly and accommodating to foreigners.
Q: Favourite Indonesian food?
Crispy duck.
Q: Favourite Indonesian word/phrase?
Maaf, saya tidak bisa berbicara bahasa Indonesia.
Q: Favourite place to eat?
Carls Jr
Q: What places in Indonesia have you visited during your practicum so far?
The Thousand Islands. I will also be undertaking the obligatory Western Sydney pilgrimage to Bali.