Meet Emily Gibson | Set Designer & Product Stylist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Emily Gibson and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Emily, what inspires you?
I would have to say that I’m inspired the most by nature; and by the way some things simply exist or become, especially without intentional human intervention. Such as, the way mold grows on a piece of fruit, or in a forgotten cup. I love to take in the messy chaos a dinner party leaves behind: glasses and bottles, some full and some empty, spills on the table, and plates stained by food. I am inspired by the way people look and behave when they don’t know they’re being observed. I am also inspired by the way objects or ideas communicate. For instance, the way you find the perfect place to rest your hand or face in the person you love as if you were made for each other; two shapes placed together that were once unrelated, now relating perfectly. Nature constantly inspires me because there is always something new to discover. Everything is happening at every moment. There’s something beautiful about noticing, for the first time, something that has always existed. It makes me feel hopeful, which often drives my creativity.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
Accepting myself as a creative has been a constant struggle. My journey as a Set Designer has been a roller coaster ride of self-discovery to say the least. In college, I studied Science and Psychology. I worked with children and families after graduation, which I enjoyed, but it didn’t ignite my passion. I realized over time that I was choosing courses and careers that didn’t actually call to me. I made decisions based on other people’s expectations of me, ignoring my own desires. Over time, I was able to wiggle free from the clutches of people-pleasing. I learned to embrace my intuition, and I follow it! I learned about Production Design and my heart sang. I decided, If I was going to pursue a career as a Set Designer, I was going to do it right. Within a year, I moved to New York

The cliche story of people moving to New York to pursue their dream and struggling in the city was true for me. I lived in a former closet-turned-bedroom with roommates, including a family of mice during the Winter. Eventually, I was introduced to some of the best Production Designers in the city and they quickly swept me up. Those days were a whirlwind of new terminology, learning dozens of new skills daily on multiple projects simultaneously, and collaborating with renowned brands. In production, perfection is expected. It is fast-paced, bursting with pressures, and there absolutely no room for error. Through the chaos, I discovered new depths of myself. It was the first time in my life that I felt I was receiving recognition for my talent. More importantly, it was the first time that I recognized the strengths and capabilities within myself. The intensity and emotional roller coaster of that period will forever hold a special place in my heart.

There were two extraordinary women who played a pivotal role in shaping my work ethic and expanding my knowledge of production. They became my mentors, unveiling the secrets of the trade and guiding me along this thrilling, albeit confusing and challenging, path. For them, I am filled with gratitude.

One thing I adore about the production world, especially art department, is that so many of us don’t pursue formal education in our craft. We come from diverse backgrounds—science, fashion, and often no college degree at all. Somehow, we find our way to this crazy space where we get to imagine and create captivating little worlds and express ourselves uniquely.

These days, I work between Dallas and New York, dressing sets for commercials and designing sets for various products, fashion shoots, etc. I love telling stories through the sets I create and would like to one day tell my stories through film. If there’s one piece of advice I can share, it’s this: listen to your inner voice. Trust your instincts and align yourself with what resonates within you. The magic began once I began to embrace myself.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I would start with the parks. White Rock Lake, Klyde Warren, and Lake Cliff Park are some of my favorites. I like to share a springtime bike ride or walk around White Rock Lake and watch the birds. I also love sharing my favorite vegan restaurants: Casa del Vegano has a killer chimichanga and churro beignets; El Palote for their flautas, BBQ sandwich, and 100% vegan mexican pastries which is rare to find; and Reverie Bakery for their impressive and delicious pastries and breakfast sandwiches! Then I’d take them to some other restaurants and danceries that are dear to me.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I would like to thank every individual who shared time with me, whether it was only a moment, a few days, or a week. Some of those unexpected interactions have been the most meaningful. Such brief moments will inspire me for a lifetime. I especially want to express gratitude to my friends, family, and partner who have supported me unconditionally and continue to teach me how to live and love. Thank you to anyone who saw me before I ever saw myself.

Website: https://www.emily-gibson.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emmgibson/

Image Credits
Shayna Fontana