Visiting lecture by Michael Angove

This semester we were fortunate to have an exciting visiting lecture from Michael Angove, A British designer who's designs have been applied to textiles, interiors, products and packaging.

I became inspired by his use of photography in his work, (as seen in the textile sample above). This is something I explored in my previous Lost and Found wallpaper project, which saw me scanning in dying lilies ,as well as photographing peeling paint, to create a dynamic wallpaper design. In his design process, Michael documents flowers using photography and edits them before layering them all on Photoshop to create his pattern designs.

I’m interested in how Michael works across disciplines into photography to create his dynamic and exciting textile designs. Combining different skills with traditional textiles is something I do in my work a lot, using a range of skills and processes e.g sand blasting and laser cutting. I feel this has enabled me to create interesting outcomes with my imagery.

It was inspiring to hear Michael talk about his business model; firstly how he's collaborated with other companies and brands which has seen Michael's designs featured on other products outside the products he currently produces. An example of this is his collaboration with Jo malone London where he produced a series of designs for the packaging of their entire range.

Secondly his use of licensing, something I was previously unfamiliar with but now enthusiastic about. Michael told us about his work with Jamida of London where through licensing his artwork, it has been applied and produced on trays which Jamida of London sell. Licensing is a great way to have work seen by and sold to a large audience, who I may not be able to reach myself in the initial early stages of setting up and running an enterprise. It is also a good way to gain brand recognition from another companies customers and audience. Licensing can be highly beneficial; this talk has introduced me to the idea. Both licensing and collaboration are something I would consider within my own enterprise, if i was to choose enterprise rather than employability.