BA (Hons) Textiles & Surface Design Student of the Year Award recognises the overall performance, approach to studying and achievement of graduating students from our BA (Hons) Textiles & Surface Design Programme.

Laura has received the award because “throughout her degree, she has been a committed, enthusiastic and a dedicated student. Her practice has developed throughout the 3 years of the degree and she has become a confident, skilled surface designer, with a highly professional attitude, who has a great future ahead of her.”  Our textiles team say that it has been an absolute pleasure having her on the textiles and surface design degree programme and they wish her every success in the future.”

We caught up with Laura, from Hartlepool, to find out more about her practice, future steps and award win! Read on to find out more:

Why did you choose to study at The Northern School of Art?

I’ve always loved being creative but never really thought I would be able to pursue it as a career or into further education. The Northern School of Art was such a good opportunity as it’s a creative hub in my hometown filled with students and staff that all share my passion.

How did you find your degree programme? 

I have loved my three years on the textiles course. I feel like I’ve learned so much and developed such a broad variety of useful skills as a designer that I will hopefully carry through to working in the industry such as screen printing, embroidery, using photoshop etc. The tutors have been very encouraging and lovely to be around, allowing us all to develop in such different directions and supporting each of us in our own journeys without ever hindering our creativity. The facilities have also been amazing, and I have a particular love for the open access print rooms which I have spent a lot of time in this year. The technicians are also so helpful and nothing is ever a trouble. We have had good opportunities on the course including the chance to have our work exhibited in the Bowes Museum. The university and our class have such a warm, friendly atmosphere, and it’s been a joy to study here.

Tell us about your FMP project!

My work tends to be very image led, inspired by the diverse variety within the natural world. I begin with photographs and draw from my own pictures, my favourite media being mixed, combining watercolour, makers and fine liner to get textural marks. I then use photoshop and collage to work on layout before using handprint methods to produce my final design work. My process covers traditional printing techniques including screen printing and hand painting with pigments, discharge and devore as well as heat transfer and tie dye. I love the unexpected and unique results achieved by using these traditional methods in a fun and contemporary way. Each piece holds a personal authenticity.

My graduate collection ‘A Summer of Love’ is an energetic collection of fashion prints which explores the happiness and freedom felt within the summer months. Inspired by the 1967 Summer of Love phenomenon, I was influenced by the hippie ethos of love and freedom. The chance for women to feel uplifted and empowered, using these lively patterns and vibrant colours to express themselves. The designs are an extension of the

happiness the sun brings me, using imagery from my own personal adventures last summer, each connected to a happy memory.

You are one of our award winners, congratulations! How did it feel to win your award?

The award came so unexpectedly but I am so grateful to have won! I feel like I have come a long way since first year and I am proud of myself. It’s an honour to be recognised, thank you so much!

What’s your favourite memory of your time at the School!

I think one of my favourite memories was going to Berlin with my best friends from my course. It’s a place I feel like I would never get the opportunity to visit otherwise and it’s a really cool and creative city. It was such a fun trip with lots of laughs.

What are you doing next and what are your ambitions for the future?

My dream job is to be a print designer for a fashion brand. Now that I have finished my degree, I have begun to apply for internships and opportunities to help gain experience in the industry. I am also exhibiting at the New Designers trade show in London which will be a great opportunity to share my work.

What is your favourite thing to do in the area?

I love the fact Hartlepool has the beach on our doorstep.

Any advice for future students applying for the same course as you?

Take every opportunity and be open to different ideas. Also have fun! It goes so quick, and I miss it already.

If you are interested in studying textiles at degree level, we offer an exciting and well-established course. Check out our degree page to find out more about the course.