Fashion and Textiles student Emma visited the 2026 Gray’s Degree Show to explore the breadth of our student’s work. She shares what she saw and learned during her visit, as well what has inspired her for her own practise.
As a current fashion and textiles student at Gray’s, I was excited to attend the opening night of this year’s Degree Show. It was a fantastic evening; students, their families and other artists came to celebrate the work of the graduate students, creating a buzzing atmosphere around the school.
Throughout the evening, I had to opportunity to explore the show and chat to some of the featured artists. I enjoyed hearing different student experiences as they reflected on their journey to reach this point in their career.
The Show Overall
The range of work on display was great with many themes explored and different styles expressed. It immediately gave a sense of individuality and creativity when you walked through the spaces. Every artist had a set space to work in, which they customised to suite their projects, highlighting the scope of talent in the school.
The way in which projects were displayed was very interesting, some pieces were hanging from the ceiling, some rooms were painted different colours (impacting lighting, mood etc), some exhibits were quite vibrant and charismatic compared to others that had a more minimalistic feel. I felt I was able to really gain an impression of each artist’s identity through their exhibition, how they were considerate to the work and how it enhanced the visual experience for the viewer.
Portfolios for all courses were available to look at which was intriguing to see and compare with one another. There were a variety of approaches: some students had lots of digital work including photographs and illustration whereas other students had more hand drawn elements such as paintings, collages, surface manipulation etc. It brings across how your art practise isn’t restrictive; it’s down to the individual artist. I feel inspired to be more experimental in future to really find what works with my personal style.
Another thing I noticed during my visit was that different courses overlapped, further emphasising the freedom to experiment within artistic practise.
For example:
- In fine art, there were pieces that incorporated textiles, ceramics and even poster design/ graphics.
- In communication design, there were projects that included photography, film/media, product design and some textile work.
- In product, ceramic and jewellery, there were some household textile products, map design graphics etc.
- In fashion and textiles, there were some elements of product design (particularly in textile projects), photography etc.
Fashion & Textile Exhibition
The space was very thoughtfully put together. Wooden display boards were spread out across the space, providing a minimalistic background that the students could individualise. I felt it really allowed the pieces of work to be showcased.
Nature was a frequent theme across projects including natural, earthy colour palettes and knitwear which was reflected by the display background. In addition, other projects featured vibrant colour and bold prints so having the plain background meant that they stood out visually.
Many collections this year featured knitwear, which I was particularly drawn to. However, they were all very different, pieces had been designed for sportwear, contemporary fashion, household textiles and more.
Each collection was unique, through colour palette, yarn/fabric types, theming, style of garments and approach to portfolio building. The themes explored often had a deep connection either with the designer themselves or with elements of nature. Reflecting on my journey so far, this provoked thoughts about my own interests and that inspiration can come from anywhere, you have the freedom to choose. I look forward to seeing how my own inspirations will go on to influence a graduate collection such as these.
It was interesting to see how sustainability was approached. Designers had used natural fibres, upcycling and sourcing deadstock fabrics when considering their final outcomes. This has given me ideas for how to continue this approach within my own practise moving forward.
Looking through student portfolios was very beneficial as each student had a slightly different layout. It was good to see how different formats were effective in translating the narrative of the project but also how the specialisms had individual processes. For example, knitted textiles had lots of work with textures & samples, garment construction worked a lot with mannequins & draping etc.
Visiting the fashion and textile exhibition brought about a sense of excitement and intrigue. I stopped to consider that in just a few years’ time; it will be my turn. The experience has allowed me to be more open to experimentation and really go deeper with areas of interest.
Key Reflections from the Show
- Your practise isn’t restricted to your specialism
- Be open to experimentation/ don’t be afraid to try something new
- There are many ways of doing things
- Inspiration can come from anywhere
- You as the artist shape your own practise
I would highly recommend visiting the degree show, especially students thinking about studying art and design. It really opens you up to new, exciting possibilities but also allows for self-reflection and the discovery of something new!