Each year we try to get along to as many degree shows as possible- either in the form of the fashion show or just to wander around the free exhibitions. As well as keeping up to date with the latest talent, you can often pick up a total bargain in the form of prints and textiles (can every one do graduate collection themed pants please?) These exhibitions are often huge, so give yourself a long time to wander around them. I gave up my sunny Sunday afternoon to hit up the ECA Degree Show 2016, and bring you my top picks from fashion, illustration and jewellery design:
1.) Li Wanshu
This list is in no particular order... but... I have a real soft spot for this one. The pieces are lightweight, vibrant and beautiful. I saw children and adults alike marvel as the designer invited them to play with the pieces using a UV torch to light up the fluorescent pieces. Each one has been hand strung with layers of beading in the laser cut acrylic and they are just wonderful!
2.) Heledd Owen
There were two very different narratives to Heledd's illustrative books- A Sorry Tale and Wooing for Amateurs. A Sorry Tale shows the mundane life of a totally ordinary man, as he makes life choices large and small. I personally loved the step-by-step guide to getting a girl though, with tips such as "make her a charm bracelet from your used floss", and "touch her nipple by accident then apologise to confirm you're not a sexual predator". As well as being witty, the collage style of the illustrations are really pleasing.
3.) Rosie Ratcliffe
There was a LOT of talent in the costume department (always my favourite) but I've chosen Rosie's work because, frankly, I want this dress. The construction of it is stunning and the prints! Clashing perfection. The photos from the live show look dreamy. Alright, someone steal this for me already.
4.) Ruoyan Wang
When I first approached the jewellery collection by Ruoyan Wang, I'll admit I was attracted by the fluffy pompoms and familiar girly shapes. However, a closer inspection of the pieces, and accompanying flipbooks, gives an insight into how clever these seemingly inocuous pieces really are. Called 21st Century Anti-Stress Devices, each wearable device is designed for sensory comfort. Pictured is the hand pocket, that is weighted at one end to hang at the correct height to allow you to subtly slip your hand into the soft fluff-lined glove in moments of uncertainty. There's also a pompom bracelet filled with soothing lavender, and a leather toothpaste-type tube to squeeze in moments of frustration to release a happy line of fauxfur. I absolutely loved these pieces and the accompanying illustrations.
5.) Amy Wedge
Medical illustration is something I'm particularly interested in (remember that The Sick Rose lecture last year?), because I'm a creep like that. This feminine, contemporary take on anatomical illustration by Amy Wedge is a lovely example of how pretty and un-grotesque the subject matter can be. I'm kinda tempted (and narcissistic enough) to ask for a commission...
It was difficult (as ever) to pick these faves. Well done to all this year's graduates on a set of really creative and coherent collections. Everyone should be proud! The ECA Degree Show 2016 is running until 5th June, so get along quick and check out the brilliant artworks on display.
Those medical illustrations were fantastic! I was staring at them for a good 20 minutes!
ReplyDelete