The chair was designed to embrace the Freudian concept of the Uncanny and to lie within the 'field of what is frightening'. The locust leg is unexpected and presents the user with a familiar object: the chair; which has been estranged and makes one wonder if sitting down is indeed more comfortable than standing up. This yields to Freud's conclusion that "what is 'uncanny' is frightening precisely because it is not known and familiar". We expect chairs to be comfortable, we appreciate the load they bare, but should modern design adhere to such expectations? As designers of locust chair we believe that the anticipation of comfort and familiarity should be challenged and in doing so it is possible to gain a new awareness of the objects we choose to surround ourselves with.

 

 

February 2011     Super Super Magazine - set design

I designed and installed a set inspired by the derelict Pacific Ocean Pier and the surf and skate culture in America in the 1970's. The set provided the backdrop for a fashion feature and developed throughout the shoot to compliment a range of different looks and lighting. 
Oct, Nov 2010      University of Leeds - Assistant Tutor
As an Assistant Tutor I contribute to group tutorials and suggest ways in which students can develop their design work, whilst also encouraging the students to evaluate one another's work and develop their critical thinking skills. I work alongside the Head of Textiles and am happy to lead my own group of students or undertake individual tutorials. If students need guidance on the operation of equipment or advice on techniques I am always happy to conduct demonstrations, and I endeavour to learn any new techniques that students would like assistance with. Before I began assisting at Leeds I gave an introductory lecture detailing my practice and feel confident giving presentations. I have found my time at Leeds extremely rewarding and love the different challenges each session brings. 
Jan - June 2010     Locust Collection - collaboration with architect
The Locust Collection is a collection of 5 miniature chairs and one life size, than incorporate the 3D scan of a frozen locust leg. The chairs were designed virtually and prototypes were printed using rapid form technology. The collection has subsequently been exhibited at the International Design Biennial. This was a collaborative project in which I designed prints for a Menswear collection that has been exhibited at Vienna and Milan Fashion Week and features in Drapers fashion magazine. I complied a collection of prints in response to a future trend brief set by WGSN and have subsequently had work featured in trend reports on their website.
Sep - Dec 2004      St John's RC Comprehensive - assistant art teacher
I attended 2 art classes a week assisting with preparations and lessons plans alongside overseeing groups within the class. I enjoyed the opportunity to assist in lesson planning, and loved the challenges of planning art classes that were both exciting and educational.  EXHIBITIONS, SPONSORSHIP & AWARDS 2010   100% Design - Oxo Tower, London
2010   Rudd Macnamara - awarded printing sponsorship
2010   Kopenhagen Fur - awarded materials sponsorship
2009   Royal College of Art - awarded bursary from Osborne & Little
2008   New Designers - Business Design Centre, London
2008   University of Leeds - Kisby Prize: awarded for being the best Textile Finalist
2008   University of Leeds - Travel Prize: awarded by the Worshipful Company of Painter Stainers for being the best Print Graduate