Robyn's UWTSD Experience
Name: Robyn Thorpe
Course: BA in Surface Pattern and Textiles
Previous Studies: Exeter College UAL Foundation & A-Levels
Hometown: Dawlish, Devon
Robyn's BA in Surface Pattern and Textiles Experience
What was your favourite thing about the Swansea campus?
I love that the campus is in the centre of Swansea, it’s great walking distance to anything you may need. All of the facilities are in either Dynevor or Alex so very close proximity.
Why did you choose UWTSD?
I chose UWTSD for many reasons, the incredible studio space, the hands on learning they offered, the kindness I received from every student or staff member when visiting. There were so many positives about this University when choosing, I knew as soon as I visited that I wanted to go here.
What did you enjoy outside your studies?
Outside of my studies I enjoyed exploring all of what Wales has to offer, I spent a lot of the sunny days out in the Gower at new beaches swimming or ‘trying’ to surf and also went on a few walks and hikes such as the Four Waterfalls and Llyn y Fan Fach. Spending my days off outdoors also inspired a lot of the projects I was working on, I felt very lucky to be so close to some of these places.
What do you hope to do when you graduate?
After graduation I hope to have secured a job or internship in a print design role at a fashion company, or swimwear/surf brand. I will continue to refine my portfolio and get in touch with companies who I feel my design style aligns with. I was fortunate enough to secure a residency with Gower National Landscapes where I was creating some Surface Pattern led pieces inspired by my four days spent exploring the nature and wildlife that lives out in the Gower, these will then be displayed at the Gower Show in August.
What was your favourite thing about your course?
My favourite thing about the course was the amount of feedback, advice, and 1 to 1s we were able to receive from not only our lecturers but technicians too. Any questions or uncertainties were always resolved, and I always felt supported within my work. I also loved having open access to the workshop spaces, being able to have a day spent either just screen-printing or embroidering was very beneficial especially when in the middle of a busy project.
Would you recommend UWTSD and why?
I would definitely recommend UWTSD, if you have a passion for art and design, want to learn new skills, and make friends for life – not just with your peers but teachers too, then absolutely come to UWTSD.
News
University of Wales Trinity Saint David’s (UWTSD) Swansea College of Art unveil Surface Pattern and Textiles student work developed in response to a live industry brief from the iconic British brand, Laura Ashley.
Students in the top ranked Surface Pattern and Textiles programme at UWTSD’s Swansea College of Art have been working with the Swedish fashion brand Monki. The students are no stranger to dynamic live briefs as part of their learning experience, and it is not the first time they have collaborated with a Swedish fashion brand.
