On Wednesday 18 June, our current Year 13 Fashion and Textiles students showcased their unique garments inspired by insects and bioluminescence at Independent Arts. 

Inspired by designers such as Galliano, McQueen and Van Herpen, each piece explored the theme of insect transformation by night.  The students demonstrated the concept of bioluminescence allowing the garments to have two purposes - one to be enjoyed in the daylight and one to shimmer and shine at night. Their imaginative designs incorporate aspects of glow in the dark from beading, to threads, to lights. The students were incredibly creative, professional and a credit to not just us but their parents/carers and themselves. 

The event was sold out, an enormous success and raised over £220 for Independent Arts - a local charity which uses the arts to improve wellbeing, quality of life and to reduce social isolation within the Isle of Wight community. 

Course Leader, Sarah Cox, said: "I would like to congratulate this year's cohort. The outcomes that they have produced this year are a reflection of the hard work and determination that they have shown throughout the whole of their course. They all really embraced the challenge of adding bioluminescence to their garments, and they all produced unique and stunning pieces. We are expecting extremely impressive results in the summer, and I am looking forward to seeing where their talents will take them in the future."

A new cohort of students will begin the Fashion and Textiles course in September and applications are still welcome from any interested current Year 11 students. There are single and double award options available, enabling young people to pursue this interest whilst also combining other subjects/courses; expanding and broadening future career prospects.