Sophie Ballantyne
Summary
Hardworking and passionate student planner with strong organizational skills eager to secure entry-level planning position. With a logical, analytical and creative mind, I am ready to apply my theoretical training with my specific skillset in creative and critical thinking to real-world planning scenarios.
Overview
8
8
years of professional experience
Work History
Art Gallery Director and Co-Founder
The Den
Christchurch, New Zealand
08.2020 - 12.2021
- Established brand identity of the gallery through consistent visual messaging and a focus on showcasing high-quality contemporary art from diverse backgrounds.
- Fostered an inclusive environment by embracing diversity in the artists represented with a particular focus on emerging artists.
- Strengthened ties between gallery space owners/landlords through consistent communication regarding contracts terms.
- Enhanced visitor experience by curating diverse and innovative exhibitions, showcasing both established and emerging artists.
- Improved gallery's online presence with regular website updates, social media posts, email newsletters, and digital marketing efforts.
- Built lasting relationships with artists by advocating for their work and providing ongoing support for their career development.
- Boosted gallery revenue by implementing effective sales strategies and fostering relationships with collectors and art enthusiasts.
- Managed daily operations of the gallery, including staffing, budgeting, inventory management, and event coordination.
Textile Design Producer
Dilana Rugs
Christchurch, New Zealand
01.2021 - 07.2022
- Oversaw production processes, including machine handling and rug construction, to ensure a polished final product.
- Developed production plans and organized resources to achieve prompt delivery of projects.
- Boosted audience engagement with high-quality content through management of social media platforms.
- Used Adobe Suite software to design textile patterns for in house production.
- Provided guidance and advice to production methods on design-related matters.
- Participated in design sessions with clients to ascertain project specifications.
Freelance Artist
Self-Employed
New Zealand
03.2016 - Current
- Maintained clear communication with clients throughout project duration, ensuring satisfaction with final products.
- Contributed to creative process through original ideas and inspiration.
- Created paintings, rugs, digital designs and ceramic artworks to client specifications
- Established a strong online presence through social media platforms and personal website, attracting new clients and commissions.
- Honed time management skills to balance workload effectively while meeting all project deadlines.
- Organized and participated in art exhibitions, increasing exposure and networking opportunities.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Urban And Regional Planning
Royal Melbourne Institute of Tech
Melbourne, VIC12.2025
Bachelor of Fine Arts - Painting
University of Canterbury
Christchurch, New Zealand12.2020
Skills
- Understanding of AutoCad and qGIS software
- Extremely organised with excellent time management skills
- Detail-oriented
- High-level communication skills
- Proficient in Adobe Photoshop, InDesign and Illustrator
- Committed to continual educational improvement
- Strategic thinking skills
- Analytical problem solver
Timeline
Textile Design Producer
Dilana Rugs
01.2021 - 07.2022
Art Gallery Director and Co-Founder
The Den
08.2020 - 12.2021
Freelance Artist
Self-Employed
03.2016 - Current
Bachelor of Arts - Urban And Regional Planning
Royal Melbourne Institute of Tech
Bachelor of Fine Arts - Painting
University of Canterbury