In celebration of our incredible Graduate show this month, we’re highlighting the creativity and talent of our graduating students by sharing their stories and showcasing their inspiring work. We spoke with Fashion Design with Business Studies BA(Hons) student Amy Pearson about the course, their influences and advice to their younger self.
Please tell us a bit about your work and your influences
My work is often inspired by the environment I was surrounded by as a child. Mainly drawing inspiration from the delicately crafted garden my mother curated for me as I grew up, I like to pay close attention to natural patterns and intricate details nature has to offer when examining closely. With my grandad who worked in the special effects film industry throughout his life, my muses are often inspired by him.
What made you choose your course?
Initially, I was never sure what direction I wanted to take in the future, until a school dressing up day required students to dress as their ‘dream job’. Clueless in what to choose, me and my mum constructed an outfit for a fashion designer – ever since then I knew this is what I wanted to do, and Brighton seemed like the right fit for me to have total creative freedom in fashion design.
Can you tell us about your favourite part of your studies and how it helped the development of you and your practice.
My favourite part of my studies is the ‘hands on’, practical experience I get through working in the studios. Since I adopt a visual approach to learning, I find the technicians physically teaching me techniques very useful.
Can you tell us about any staff who particularly inspired you?
My tutors and technicians inspire me the most. From learning about their past experiences in the industry and the helpful tips I would have never considered – their perspectives and insights inspire me the most.
If you did a placement or work experience, can you tell us about it and any support you received?
Placement was very insightful year for me, as it was the first time I had experienced the industry I want to peruse in a professional setting. It bought to life aspects I would need to consider after graduating and broadened my perspectives into different avenues I can consider in fashion design.
What does Brighton mean to you now?
Brighton reflects a time in my education where I have learned the most about myself as a practitioner and a student. It has taught me teamwork, resilience, communication and how far you can go when you really push yourself.
Can you tell us your plans after graduation?
My plans after graduation will be to look deeper into the different avenues my course has to offer outside of education and experimenting in the different pathways. I am interested in exploring costume design and film.
Finally if you could give your 17 year old self any advice about going to university what would it be?
I would tell my 17 year old self to take the risk and study what I want to do, regardless of what my friends take. Take the time to consider what you want to do and don’t jump into a course that you have not looked into. Do the research – you have so much more time than you think.
