For a long time I believed it was the adult making a statement through what they choose to wear that was my market but it wasn’t workingfor me. Something wasn’t quite right. I have always known what I wanted to create but didn’t know what it exactly was just that I hadn’t found it yet.
Then after looking through old family pictures of my childhood I realized what I had been missing the obvious it is the inner child in the adult that really matter that’s what interests me.
‘That’s why I could be quite a good actress, being in disguise assuming another role, hiding behind a costume, it is so easy. Being ones-self, now that’s always a little more tricky, don’t you think?’ (Daphne Guinness)
I have a great excitement for fashion, the way it enables the wearer to express a personality and style on a daily basis without having to even speak a single word fascinates me.
‘The art of getting dressed allows the wearer to prepare the body for society, choosing whether to conform to the idea of what is normal or not.’
Fashion is about making a statement whether you consciously choose to make one or not. Everything defines us whether it be, jeans and a T-shirt or a dress made of meat, each is a statement the later being the most obvious. I am interested in making a statement, causing a reaction.
Providing a platform for new talent
In a bid to bring exciting new concepts in art and design to the general public Birmingham City University and train operator London Midland have joined forces to provide a unique platform for student talent.
Made in the Midlands is a collection of poster art produced by students at Birmingham Institute of Art & Design (BIAD), part of Birmingham City University, which has now gone on display at London Midland rail stations around the region, including Birmingham’s Snow Hill.
The exciting collection features 15 designs ranging from a range of disciplines, including photography, graphics, textiles, architecture, painting and illustration.
The work represents the diversity of talent that makes the region a leader in the creative industries – and millions of people will have the chance to view the public exhibition and comment on the work.
This is a unique opportunity for students to have their work appraised in a busy, public environment. Passengers who rarely visit galleries or exhibitions have the chance to view work on platforms and in booking halls as part of their daily lives.
Sharing pride
Paul Glennon (pictured), BIAD Associate Dean, said: “This showcase of creative talent is very exciting – not only for our students but for the travelling public as well.
“We are delighted that London Midland wants to support this project and share our pride in the diverse creativity that comes from this region.
“Birmingham City University is the leading provider of undergraduate talent for the creative industries outside of London. This directly supports the local and national economies and helps power a sector that is fast-growing.”
Reviving artistic tradition
Alex Hynes (pictured), London Midland Commercial Director said: “We’ve been extremely impressed by the work of students at Birmingham City University and we’re delighted to showcase these posters across the London Midland network in the West Midlands.
“We look forward to hearing what rail passengers think. There has been a long tradition of art on the railways, in advertising and public information, and this is a great opportunity for students to display their work.
“The West Midlands is brimming with talent and we’re glad we can play our part in providing a platform.”
