I am a practice-based design researcher, interested in the potential future of the fashion and textile industry if we move into a biological age. My research investigates how design could play a key role in the development of a bio-economy that is circular, ethical and achievable. I have a wealth of experience in design research, critical design and sustainable futures. Honing my creative practice to function as a research method, I shape speculative design objects and create complex supporting narratives as discussion tools.
My research seeks to develop new insights in consumer-focused biotechnology within the fashion and textile industries. It aims to explore how to engage a range of ‘publics’ and introduce socio-cultural perspectives into an emerging ‘bioeconomy’ (Collet, 2017) currently determined by a small number of industry professionals. Emerging biotechnologies potentially offer more sustainable futures for the textile industries through biological engineering. Whilst these technological advances have huge potential, design research into the socio-cultural components of this emerging field, the impacts these may have on society and public perception surrounding the ethics of bioengineering are limited. The practical, moral and ethical complexities of this technology and its influence on fashion, are not fully understood.
Day to day I am the Course Leader for the International Pathway Programmes at UCA Farnham. This includes the INternational Foundation in Art, Design and Media and the Graduate Diploma in Art and Design. I have a range of experience in planning and organising large and complex programs of study. These include managing staff, students, events, promotion, exhibition planning, writing for different contexts, academic research and funding applications.
Working as a practitioner and educator for over 10 years, I have a range of education experience in delivering projects and teaching at primary, secondary, further education, degree and masters level, with young offenders, in pupil referral units and at specialist schools. I have worked with and for HEI’s, Adult Education, SME’s, design companies, artists, crafts organisations and arts consultants. I have 10 years experience of lecturing in FE and 5 in HE with a focus on international teaching and learning in the last 5 years.
My experience as a design researcher encompasses knowledge of teaching and applying research methods and methodology, academic writing, presentation skills, research reports, data analysis, design thinking and research ethics.