The article by Peter Baker was very insightful to the amount of different skills and jobs Visual Merchandisers actually have. His outline of the knowledge needed for VMs is very interesting since it’s very applicable to a lot of jobs, and helpful in understanding VMs.
The three areas of knowledge he outlines include;
technical subject matter expertise-meaning the news, techniques, and technology with the visual industry. He also explains Business Industry Knowledge – which includes the incorporation of business ideas and managerial skills in project, and finally Global Regional Perspective which is the use of market trends and cultural/geographical differences as a lens for your work.
This triple viewpoint approach to VM can have beneficial effects to your overall work giving way to a more well rounded approach to a project; artistically active, cost effective, and accessible to all audiences.
Baker’s approaches to gaining greater knowledge of the industry include walking the streets on NYC, art galleries, trade shows, movies, and so many other highly accessible mediums. Staying current and relevant remains a major part of any industry, especially since experts remain in jobs!
maba11 