Who is Spencer Herd?
A small town West Australian queer knowing a big city was my main calling. Graduating from the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts, I hope to bring a new and innovative outlook into the industry as a collaborative and dynamic artist through new Australian works, queer stories and important voices.
What would you do differently from what you do now?
I’ve pretty much known that I wanted to be a lighting designer since school, so it’s always been the main goal. COVID however, planted some doubt seeds in my mind, making me want more security and certainty. This led me to consider going back to uni and pursuing a career in architectural lighting design – a real stretch, I know. Ultimately, I think it was a distraction that I needed to get through yet another lockdown. Although, it’s nice to know that pathway is out there if I ever choose to follow that line of work down the track.
Who inspires you and why?
There’s a few Visual Artists that really drive my creativity. Shaun Tan has always encaptivated me, and a dear friend, Carmel Sayer, is an incredible artist whom has always pushed me to be better and better, all the while still appreciating my roots.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
World Peace. 25th April.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
Holiday? Yeah, can’t relate.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
Any place that does a bottomless brunch. Day drinking? I’m down.
What are you currently reading?
The script for my next production. But I also never finish books. Start them, never finish them.
What are you currently listening to?
Depends on the vibe! Curating a playlist is my jam. Hard beats for the gym? Easy. Chill drinks in the sun with some friends? Done. Relaxing around the house with some ambience? You’ll be transported to another world. Although Flight Facilities with the MSO is currently on repeat personally.
Happiness is?
Yet to be determined.
What does the future hold for you?
A Tony would be top tier! But in the meantime, pressing forward in a covid norm world creating a name for myself as a creative and a designer. But the unknown excites me. Yet reading the weather forecast is my way of seeing into the future.
Spencer’s lighting designs can be seen in the upcoming Midsumma productions of Bottom at Bluestone Church Arts Space: 1 – 5 February / The Butterfly Club: 7 – 12 February and Run at Bluestone Church Arts Space: 1 – 5 February / Gasworks Arts Park: 8 – 12 February. For more information, visit: www.spencerherd.com for details.
Image: Spencer Herd – photo by Stephen Heath