It’s been a busy few months for BA (Hons) Textiles and Surface Design graduates Jaime Curá and Laura Wigham.

Straight after graduation they headed down to London to feature as part of The Northern School of Art’s textiles course stand at the prestigious New Designers exhibition showcase of the UK’s most innovative emerging design talent. Whilst they were there they learned that their work had been selected for the Green Grads in the North exhibition at the Great Northern Contemporary Craft Fair (GNCCF) at Manchester Victoria Baths from 17-20 October 2024.

We caught up with them both to find out more…

Jaime Curá

How did New Designers go and what reaction did you have to your work?

New Designers went really well, it seemed busier than previous years. Lots of interest in the construction of my coats, especially ‘Excess Threads’ the waste yarn, thread and fabric coat. The feedback I received was amazing, it actually took me aback. It’s always nice when complete strangers see your work and tell you how much they love it and can see how much work has gone into each piece.

What was your reaction to being invited to Green Grads in the North?

To be invited to be a Green Grad, didn’t come as too much of a surprise, as I had met and have kept in touch with Barbara Chandler the Founder and Curator of Green Grads. But it is definitely an honour and an amazing opportunity that I am going to embrace fully.

What are you planning to show there?

I will be taking my three main coats that I showed at New Designers, and I am presently working on a few other pieces.

What else are you working on at the moment?

I’m presently in the process of creating a new range jackets, coats and bags. Plus, my fellow Green Grad Laura Wigham (Wild North) and I are working on a collaborative project. We are planning on combining her beautiful prints with my fabrics to create another new range of products. So, watch this space.

What advice or tips would you pass on to anyone studying, or thinking about studying, textile design?

Take regular breaks, enjoy what you are working on, be passionate, listen to the advice you are given and ask questions. The Northern School of Art is a hive of information with very talented lecturers and technicians, take advantage of that whilst it’s at your fingertips. You can learn so much from this extremely accomplished and generous group of people and remember that even if the person you ask doesn’t have the exact answer you are looking for, they’ll always be able to point you towards someone who does.

Any wishes in terms of people keeping their practices as sustainable as possible?

You are the next generation of designers; use sustainably sourced and ethically made fabrics, dyes and haberdashery. Use waste. Recycle, up-cycle, think about your carbon footprint. Our planet’s future is relying on you to make a difference and although you may not see it, the power IS in your hands to make that happen. It’s easier than you think to make little changes that have big impact.

“Just as ripples spread out when a single pebble is dropped into water, the actions of individuals can have far-reaching effects.” Dalai Lama (2013)

Anything else you’d like to add?

Drop a pebble. Be a ripple.

Oh yes and follow my Instagram page @cura.jl!

Laura Wigham

How was New Designers?

New Designers was such an enjoyable and inspiring experience. I met many new people, saw amazing work by the other exhibitors, and I got new opportunities from it. There was a positive reaction to my work, especially my linocut prints.

How did you feel about being invited to be part of Green Grads in the North?

I was totally over the moon! Natural inspiration and sustainability are at core of my work so it was absolutely wonderful for this to be recognised by Green Grads. I’m very grateful for the opportunity.

Tell us more about what you will be showing

I am planning to show linocut prints alongside the original blocks, drawings, and photography to highlight the process and raw inspiration, telling the story of my work, as well as greetings cards, and cushions, which display the hand-painted aspect of my work.

Can you share what you are working on at the moment?

At the moment, I am working on growing my own business as designer-maker, selling at markets, local shops, and online (with a website coming in September) and running workshops. I’m also working on collaborations with fellow Green Grad Jaime Curá, and an exciting project coming soon with ‘Local Heroes’. Alongside this, I’m working as a framer and selling my work at Saltburn Framing Co & Gallery.

What advice would you give to new and would-be textile designers?

Enjoy your time, take every opportunity, make the most of The Northern School of Art’s fabulous guidance and facilities – appreciate what you have while you’re there. Experiment and figure out what you really love doing.

Anything you’d suggest that would help them to keep their practices as sustainable as possible?

Experiment with natural and upcycled materials and sustainable processes where you can, it would be great if the industry moved further in this direction.

Find Laura on Instagram @laurawigham.design

Further information about the exciting and innovative BA (Hons) Textiles & Surface Design degree at the Northern School of Art is available HERE