YOU ARE WHAT YOU EAT PROJECT

This was a short independent project, set to see how we begin to work independently, and to help us in our chosen specialism. 

Initially I began with some experimental drawings, however I soon realised these weren't working so I trialled printing.

As you can see from the 8 samples above I found a simple method that was working really well. It is a straightforward combination of collage and coloured ink,whereby I began slicing found berries and apples and then printed their surface pattern onto the collage. By watering down the ink in places it has created a fluid feel to the samples, and blends together the red and quink ink. I think the most successful element of the above samples is the unpredictable  shapes created by the berries. By having different forms rather than one repetitive shape it enhances the depth, and heightens the sense of that natural elements. The idea of 'You are what you eat' comes into account by the use of apples - a common fruit seen daily - against the wild berries. The apples symbolise the idea of comfort zones, and how we often stick to what we know and are afraid to try new things but the berries represent temptation and the idea of something new - i.e you are what you eat.

During this process I learnt to trust in myself, and that its okay when an idea doesn't end how I would have liked, and to just work with it to create a better and more exciting method. This helped me to look at these prints and think in advance as to how they can be developed onwards. 

Because I am interested in Textile Design, I chose to move my work into the digital side, and began creating surface patterns.

As you can see I started using Photoshop to group together my samples, which resulted in the above and below outcomes. Once I began sampling I really got into a flow, which was really successful in helping my own personal development. It has helped me to advance in believing in a good idea and enabled me to produce strong digital samples. The above sample on the left was the first I produced, and also where I discovered the use of the overlaying tool. The composition is strong, and the vertical layout has produced leading lines that ensure your eyes cover the whole of the piece. The overlay is effective as it creates many layers in the sample, producing a vast depth. There are hints of text across the background which adds a strong texture to the piece. It also gives a sense of mystery, by making them less visible it enhances the idea of the berries being a temptation. You lean into the background in order to see what they are.

The same could be said for the sample on the right, however the depth is intensified by the addition of the collaging in the background. The colours begin to become darker and more vibrant in this sample, intensified by the negative space, which gives the impression of the fruit being richer. 

The two samples above have less of a 'pattern like' feel to them, and there is much more going on in the overall composition. With the piece on the left the depth is grand, and all the different layers really capture the attention of the viewer. The bold colours push out into the foreground, contrasting greatly with the faded background, which really enhances the depth of the piece. Whereas the piece on the right, although still containing many textures and layers, has a clear white background where the negative space pushes all the details into the foreground. 

Overall in this project I feel I really began to blossom in what I was creating, and although it was difficult working independently, it is clear within my work that I am along the right route to becoming a textile designer.