Graduate Collection 'Kyoto'

  • Ellen Martin

A term spent living and studying in Kyoto has had a profound influence on my work as a designer. Photos taken in the streets, shrines and temples of the city were translated into detailed drawings and collages with a focus on repeat pattern. This led to experimentation with folded and pleated papers, informed by lanterns and origami, to consider how patterns change when manipulated and folded. The textile outcomes include digitally printed silk and bamboo with subtle pleat and fold illusions, and screen-printed cotton, hand-cut into geometric shapes, then bonded onto organza to create a three-dimensional effect. These are complimented with samples of Katazome, a traditional Japanese resist-dyeing technique, which has been used to create simplified patterns. The range of techniques used make this a versatile collection of textiles, suitable for clothing and lifestyle accessories.