28 September 2013

a burst of colour, a thirst for creation


In the beginning of this week, we were briefed about a new project. Niki Jones talked to us about her career, her brand and the project very clearly, so that we can set to work with no confuse,  and the talk even made our future clearer.
I liked Folk project, but it's challenging at the same time. My primary idea for this project is Mexican folk crafts. I found out that Mexican culture had been influenced by both Europe and America because of historic and geographic background. The fact enabled me to look at not only Mexico but also broader regions.

Mexican folk embroidery called Otomi


Mexican embroidered blouse

After having gathered enough amount of images, I selected a few images to draw from, then started drawing. Through drawing, I'm trying to understand what makes me interested in Mexican folk art. It means that the drawing is still a part of research, not a part of design. 


Drawings with oil pastels on black paper 


fun of ethnic stitches
—from right: Chinese knot, Turkmen stitch, Indian edging stitch and detached chain stitch


In terms of colour, I have got a collection of photos which I took this week and before. Speciality of Mexican folk art is its bold colour, so I selected photos which show great contrast of darkness and brightness. To get different kinds of texture, I combined every two photos—one organic and one artificial stuff. Next week is going to be busy—further colour research and more drawing.




On my way back home,  I saw Skypark windows reflecting the sky, and it made me realised that it's been 2 years since I started studying here. To be honest I'd never liked Skypark, but surprisingly now I'm feeling sorry to leave here after this term. 


21 September 2013

week 1

The first week back in school was relaxing.
On Monday and Wednesday morning, we worked on craft and drawing activities in small groups. It seemed less suitable for our age, but I found that quite a few of materials provided by tutors were unfamiliar to me, so it was fun and inspiring to play with them.

At pechakucha on Friday, I found myself getting used to making presentation compared to the last year. I still have problems in every aspect—especially timing—but at least I could speak more confidently without giving an uncomfortable smile at all time.

stitch samples on paper





In this weekend, I visited GSA graduate degree show at lighthouse. There were many things to learn from master students' work—the work itself and how to present it to the public.
From one of portfolios, I knew an interesting embroidery artist. The artist is called Jazmin Berakha who works in Buenos Aires. She uses a lot of cheerful colours, and I liked the different look of colours which changes depending on background colours.









10 September 2013