Arts Thread

https://vimeo.com/1081246707/5c7f0f5c6e?ts=0&share=copy This project will explore heraldic animal symbolism and interior design. Inspired by medieval heraldry, my collection will incorporate animals such as lions, griffins and stags, which are symbols of strength and courage. These symbols will be reinterpreted with a modern approach, keeping current with current interior design trends. I aim to prioritise eco-conscious materials and processes throughout my collection, aligning with UN Sustainable Goal No.13 Climate Action to reduce the environmental impact of textile production. I will look at Coats of Arms, medieval tapestries and manuscripts as primary sources of inspiration. I will explore artists' interpretations of these creatures and how they have influenced textile and interior design. In addition, I will research national floral emblems of the UK, incorporating them into my designs. Other motifs will include traditional heraldic symbols, including nature, astronomy and everyday medieval iconography such as keys and shields, which have been used to represent protection. Primary research will form the development from heraldic beasts reinterpreted with a modern approach, ensuring relevance with today’s interior trends and for secondary research, looking at Hampton Court, Emma Shipley and interior design companies such as Cole & Son, House of Hackney for inspiration. I intend to explore a variety of textile techniques that align with both historical techniques and sustainable innovation. These include: laser etching, adding depth and textures to fabric without the use of flock, puff and Devore, which use toxic chemicals, Procion screen printing - using water-based dyes - minimising environmental impact and digital textile printing, which significantly reduces water and chemical waste. Working on the no.13 UN goal, I want to prioritise extending product life by encouraging repair and upcycling alternatives along either multifunctional design.

This project is in response to the Luxury Fashion Brand Preen. This expressive textile collection is made to symbolise recovery through botanical elements. These designs are formed of flowers and herbs that have been used in medicine and some that are still used today. I have looked at physics gardens and used some of the plants there, in my designs… some of these include Wild Strawberries, Poppy, Sweet Woodruff, Royal Penny and Daisy.

This expressive textile collection is designed to raise awareness about the critical state of The Great Barrier Reef, which faces severe threats from rising sea temperatures, coral bleaching, and increased human activity. Through this collection, I aim to highlight the beauty and fragility of marine ecosystems while emphasising the urgent need for conservation. The designs are inspired by marine animals and coral species that are currently listed as endangered. Some of these include the Whale Shark, Tiger Shark, Tawny Nurse Shark, Manta Ray, Clownfish, Seahorse and intricate coral forms. These designs are primarily intended for interiors, I have also showcased some in fashion to demonstrate how they can seamlessly interlink between both fields. This collection serves as both a celebration of marine life and a wake-up call to protect our oceans for future generations.

The zeitgeist today currently is anxiety. Some of the predicted future trends are surrealism, fantasy and comfort. Some recent climate events, such as The Northern Lights have become recurring events throughout the UK in the last year. I have looked at natural formations such as rocks and minerals - some that resemble space. I have looked at The National History Museum's collection of Rocks and Minerals, and this was the inspiration for my collection. As a predicted trend is also comfort, I intend to create a sleepwear collection using silks and Jersey for SS26. This includes dressing gowns, pyjamas, eye masks and slippers.

Designed in collaboration with occupational therapy (Ace), this interactive "busy book" brings a zoo adventure to life for children with disabilities. Inspired by vibrant, sweet-like colours, it enhances fine motor skills with small pieces, varied textures (flock, foil) and interactive tasks. Each page features a zoo animal with its Makaton symbol, supporting communication. This makes it both learning and fun for individual or group play, the goal is to complete challenges and collect stars.