Design show is electric
MA students exhibit final work in eye-catching show
Ying and Yang, totem poles and electronic equipment aren’t usually the first things you think of when it comes to design ideas. But the University of Central Lancashire’s (UCLan) MA Show 2010 is the place where these items have been brought to life in a blaze of light.
The creators of these exhibits are Masters’ students in UCLan’s Northern School of Design in subjects including ceramics, design, interior design and games design.
Gilbertson scholarship student Sarah Hargraves has created a stunning and colourful fabric and chair using circuit boards as her inspiration and showing how digital technology has enhanced textile design.
The MA Surface Pattern Design student, from Fulwood, said: “I had the chair specially upholstered to show how the design can be made into an actual product and I’m delighted with how it’s all worked out.”
Sarah was originally a foundation student but then progressed on to the degree course. She studied on the Masters courtesy of funding from UCLan’s Gilbertson Scholarship – given to any student who gains a First. She said: “The Bursary really helped concentrate mind on what I really wanted to do and show how designs can be made into actual products.”
Selections of half body ceramic figures, which reflect the two sides to people’s personalities, were made by 75-year-old Marie Kershaw.
The Lytham MA Ceramics student said: “I wanted to look at personalities and wanted to portray what you call the Ying and Yang which everybody has. I then designed one half to look opulent and lavish while the other was simpler but still had a shot silk finish.”
Mrs Kershaw, who has now been commissioned to undertake several projects, added: “I’m very pleased with the outcome and delighted I came to UCLan to improve my skills.”
A revolutionary MRSA cleaning capsule is the brainchild of Becky Creer. The 24-year-old, from the Wirral, has created a disinfectant clip on attachment for hospital trolley wheels called MedWheel.
The MA Design student said: “It’s such a simple idea but it’s never been done before. Research shows MRSA travels 4.8metres on the wheels of trolleys but with this device the correct solution can be placed on the wheels and can stop the bug travelling any distance.”
International student Shui Wai Mak wanted to reflect her heritage in her graphic design work.
The 25-year-old, from Taiwan, created tall, white, lit totem poles depicting scenes from when the aboriginals ruled the land. The other half of the poles showed what the country was like when it was occupied by the Hans.
Mature MA Surface Pattern student Susie Knowles took influences from gardens for her exhibition work. The Prestonian was inspired by a combination of seeds, plants, plant pots and tools to create tablecloths, aprons, table mats and prints.
Bev Lamey, Course Leader for MA Surface Pattern Design, added: “The exhibition is the pinnacle of the fantastic work produced by the masters’ students. The diverse cultural mix we attract to the courses is reflected in the work on display.”
The exhibition runs until January 29 in UCLan’s PR1 Gallery and entry is free.
22 January 2010
