Tuesday, April 5, 2016

Irish Design worth more than 37 billion to the economy!

Dear all,

I think you'll find it interesting to read the report commissioned by the government regarding the contribution of the creative sector in Ireland.

http://www.dccoi.ie/about/blog/irish-design-worth-more-than-37-billion-to-the-economy


Monday, February 22, 2016

Mock Interviews

Hi all,

For the next two weeks, I'll be welcoming you to your Mock Interviews. Be sure to edit your work, and bring your best finished and works in progress. Draw from all sources, including your sample books of surface treatments, drawings, visual studies, and stitch; bring work from first and second year. I'll send you support via email.

Below are a few videos produced by Central St. Martin's in London. I trust you will find them informative as well as inspirational.





Sunday, January 24, 2016

Jennifer Slattery Studio visit review

Dear all,

Firstly, allow me to wish you all a healthy and rewarding 2016. We'll be building upon the foundations of the first term with some equally practical exercises, and a guest lecturer who will help you refine your photographic images for your digital portfolios. But more about that later!

To make the most of our visit to Jennifer Slattery's Studio, I'd like you to review your notes, and identify information you think you can apply to your own practice. Jennifer's business model has undergone quite a few changes over the years. She has generously shared her journey with us, a rare opportunity to glimpse the development of a design business.

In no less than 1000 words, describe your impressions of Jennifer's business. Focus on her business as a model. What opportunities was she able to take advantage of? Can you identify opportunities you may be able to take advantage of for your own practice? Did Jennifer's presentation change your thinking about owning your own business? What ways has she adapted over the years to make her business more profitable? What are your thought about hiring professionals such as photographers and website designers, as well as other professional services to help with your business? What ways can you identify she adapted to increase sales or exposure? Can you identify different income streams within her business, and if so, what are they? What have you learned about wholesale, retail, and online sales? What strategies has Jennifer used to help promote her products? What did you learn about packaging, design modification? Use these questions as a guide. You may include other relevant points related to Jennifer's journey, or current, business model. Deadline is 16th February, in class.

See you all soon!

Friday, October 30, 2015

Jennifer Slattery Studio Visit

Hi all,

I trust you're all enjoying your mid term break! I wanted to let you know that Jennifer Slattery has confirmed for Monday, the 16th of November. We will meet at her studio at the Old Butcher Studios, 72 - 74 Benburb Street, at 10 am. Be on time and remember to bring note taking supplies. Any questions, please leave a comment. For a bit of inspiration, and to get an idea of the kind of products Jennifer designs, have a look at her website:

Jennifer Slattery Textiles

Tuesday, September 29, 2015

Welcome!

You are all very welcome to your second year on the Fiber Arts Higher National Diploma course.  Take a few minutes to orient yourself to the blog: you will notice that posts from last years' class can be viewed below, and a list of links can be seen to the right of the posts, along with a 'Follow Me' gadget.  Click on this gadget and this blog will be added to your dashboard for you.  Tip: if you bookmark your dashboard, it will be easier for you to find.  Please feel free to leave comments in the comment box below.  Once you do, I will receive an e mail notice, and will respond within a day or so.

We will be working on our design development and making, while investigating our progression aims. Researching your next step following on from this course will be a very individual process. On the sidebar to the left, you will find helpful links to assist you in this process. Whether you want to start a business, continue with third level education, or find your way in a technologically sophisticated, online marketplace, research is of the utmost importance.

Remember to bring your typed paragraph about your progression aims next week. I will then individually direct your continuing research.

Take care, and see you next week!

Friday, February 20, 2015

Portfolio Reviews/Interviews

Hi all,

As promised, I am posting below the schedule for portfolio reviews/interviews. Remember to send me your answers to 20 interview questions at: gwen.fagan@bcfe.ie.

A gentle reminder to all, as I won't be seeing you as a class for a while: remember to continue with your progression aims research.

Monday, Feb 23:  Kirsten and Magda
Monday, March 2: Beata and Mary
Monday, March 9: Theresa and Fiona

Include in your portfolios: sketchbooks, works in progress, work from first year (like technique files from Printed Textiles), 3D pieces are fine, but limit the number for everyone's sanity. Bring the work you're most proud of, and make sure you have examples across media as well. Look sharp, and I'll see you at interview!


Saturday, November 22, 2014

Christmas Market Production Schedule

Hi all,

It does the soul good to see you all in production - you are on your way to a successful sale! For the next few weeks, we will continue to meet in the print room instead of room 23 to facilitate production. Be sure you come prepared with all supplies needed to make the most of your time. I will of course be available to help with any manufacture or design modifications throughout this process. The excitement is building....

The schedule below should help you with your planning process in preparation for the sale at Glasnevin on the 14th of December. We have 3 class days left before the sale!

November 24h: Production
December 10th: Production and supply lists, responsibilities
                   8th: Production and preparation, display practice run    

See you all Monday!

NB: See new link to Fundi.ie and Business to Arts pages to the right.