My initial goals for the Practice unit were to
create a print collection and to create content and sample layouts for a trend
resource. Throughout the unit the majority of these aims have been achieved.
Challenging myself with new software and technologies in order to create
conceptual and original work. I have managed to curate a range of prints that
are relevant to my concept. A great deal of research has gone into Smart Textiles
and wearable technology. This has allowed me to contact a number of companies
that provide textiles with embedded technologies such as Pharetra that have healing
or soothing qualities. These fabric samples have been extremely important to
the progress of this unit.
I have gained a greater sense of context within
this unit. The print collection that I achieved was initially aimed to be
high-end. I wanted the fabrics used to have a luxe sport wear feel to them,
this was achieved by outsourcing fabrics. I believe that my print designs
reflect that of Peter Pilotto or Kenzo, as a large range of colour is used as well
as bold prints within the brands. My trend recourse is also aimed at a high-end
market, and would be used to inspire designers for high-end brands. The resource
could be accessed online by subscription or stocked on modeinfo.com. Also
within the project I have grown confident in my own abilities within Art
Direction and Trend Forecasting, showing conceptual awareness with my use of
fabric and technology.
An area which I feel could have been improved
upon is my use of layouts; they could have been explored in more depth within
this unit however I felt it was necessary to concentrate on the content of the
trend resource. A key challenge has been the time spent on learning new skills
especially surrounding my dimension concept. The software involved with 3D
printing is complicated and requires a lot of time. When 3D printing I
encountered a lot of problems, therefore needed to teach myself how to use
another type of software, 123D Design. This meant that valuable time was wasted
within the unit. I also regret not doing an initial photoshoot, this has staggered the evolution of my project however I look forward to developing this within Unit X.
Over all I am pleased with the outcome of this
unit. I have pushed myself to experiment with colour and be bolder with my use
of print, something I have shied away from in the past. My presentation skills
have also developed; I have managed to reflect my concept with the use of art
direction. My ability to network and complete a number of briefs at the same
time has also improved, as I have been able to contact people in a more professional
manner. This project has also allowed me to realise that upon graduating I
would best suite a working environment in which I work for someone, creating
concepts behind photo shoots or collections. I feel that this is where I truly thrive.
Aims for Unit X:
In Unit X I plan to complete my trend resource,
and possibly creating an online outlet to make it more accessible. I also plan
to create a look book with conceptual styling inspired by sport wear to display
my print collection. The possibility of collaborating in Unit X is also an exciting factor that Grace Davies and myself have considered when working throughout this unit.
