Following on from Inspired Festival, dozens of creative students flocked to New Designers, a two-week exhibition hosted in London. The event also includes an awards programme in which notable projects are recognised.
Among the attendees was Sachi Shetty, a third-year Textiles student, who picked up the Wilcom Digital Embroidery Associate Prize for her project, Medusa and Me.
Sachi told us more about her project and her experience showcasing work at New Designers.
What is New Designers?
New Designers is a two week long exhibition that showcases graduate work. On display are works from fashion and textiles students, as well as graphic design, jewellery, product, woodwork and many other design disciplines.
35 awards are given out via the New Designers Awards Programme to students and brands. The event is also a great opportunity for graduates to network with businesses, buyers and recruiters from their industry.
Sachi’s project
Medusa and Me is an interactive embroidered collection of fashion statement pieces for a luxury clientele, inspired by the myth of Medusa. It explores the power of emotion and the perception of the human senses while celebrating female strength and empowerment. This has been achieved through refined technical experimentation, with a range of explorative techniques, technologies, materials and fibres. A combination of dyeing processes has achieved depth and enhanced the strong opulent colour tones.
Sachi hopes the collection inspires others to consider how technological developments could change the way we build and express identity using interaction to reconfigure our relationship with materials.
Winning
Sachi explained: “It was an emotional moment for me as all my hard work had finally paid off. Especially the late-night workshop days, the days I have cried, the days I have failed, I'm so proud of myself for not giving up.”
“I think my younger self who didn't know anyone in this foreign country and was nervous when she joined BCU three years ago would be delighted and gratified of the person I have become today. I think the first thing that comes to my mind when I think about what promoted me to achieve my goals, it would have to be my glorious institution BCU.”
“Birmingham City University hasn't just been my university but a home away from home. I would like to start by thanking all my hardworking tutors who have constantly helped us to strive better. I would also like to thank my lovely technicians who have taught me everything I know today. Thank you so much for always pushing me to try new techniques and the fun memories we have made; I shall cherish them for life.”
