Empower ranger: Vek Neal
“I consider myself a hype man for creativity,” says Vek Neal (B.F.A., illustration, 2004). “My aim is to listen to students, ask the right questions, and provide insights based upon my experiences.”
As the new SCADamp visualization coach, Atlanta-based Neal conducts one-on-one sessions with students looking to improve their professional presentation skills. This winter quarter he will also lead two recurring workshops, Design Your Deck and Dress the Part. Believe it: Vek’s colossal charisma feels transferable even via Zoom. And you can bet he’ll be wearing a snazzy blazer when you see him.
Vek Neal:
The metaphor I use for a visualization coach is a trainer who helps you get in shape. They’re not going to lift the weights for you, they’re going to give you the techniques that allow you to exercise properly and perform your best. Visualization coaching is about best practices and starting great routines early on, so when you present within your SCAD academic experience and in the professional world, you perform in a way that comes naturally.
My sessions with students are 20 or 40 minutes. Within that time, we talk about the work they’re focused on. My first priority is to listen to the student for what they’re trying to amplify. That’s when I ask questions and start bringing in tips. As a SCADamp visualization coach, I’m not here to place students into a box, I’m here help them find creative solutions in their own voice. What’s really going to sell who you are? You have to be authentic.
My professional skill set includes illustration, photography, video editing, strategic planning, marketing, graphic design — all of which are art. I’ve always been like a Swiss army knife. Give me a moment, or a day or week or month, and I can learn new tasks. It’s the challenge that that keeps me excited.
SCAD has grown so much since I graduated in 2004. SCAD Atlanta and SCAD Savannah are different in terms of location and layout, but the energy and the creative activity are united. I recognize myself in the students, because I’m also committed to expressing myself and doing my best work.
Everybody on Zoom, everyone physically walking into a space, we’re all here because we want to be. SCAD has always been successful walking into the unknown, and providing new outlets for learning. The fact that SCAD is able to create new, innovative platforms to educate is so impressive.
My truth is aligning vulnerability with strength. There’s a level that you have to go to in order to be present within your creativity and elevate your work. If I’m coaching you, I want you to go past what you might normally do, because that’s what’s really going to make people want to work in partnership with you.
With students, I’m coming from a place of, I want you to win. It’s as simple as that. I want you to win.
Students can email Vek directly at vneal@scad.edu to arrange a personal coaching session.
By Peter Relic
