Designer insights with Rachel Reynolds

Rachel Reynolds is a freelance textile design, artist and creative tutor working from Southampton, from her eponymous studio. Rachel creates bespoke screen printed textile designs, utilising hand drawn elements, as well as technology to create layered work. She has received awards from the Southern Arts Board and is a Prince's Trust supported business. Rachel is also a graduate from Loughborough University, with a BA (Hons) in Printed Textiles and holds a MA in textile design. So we are proud to bring you the Designer Insights of Rachel Reynolds.

Designer Insights - Rachel Reynolds

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1) In your own words describe your unique style and creative aesthetic?

Eclectic. I enjoy juxtaposing traditional techniques with contemporary influences. The Heritage Collection combines drawings, textures and patterns inspired from memorabilia and architecture.

2) When starting a new project, what is your creative process?

Firstly research. Exploring colours, patterns and images from magazines, current trends and historical references. I take photographs relevant to the theme, which I use to create a mood board.

3) Out of the creative people you have worked with, who is it that you respect and admire the most?

I’ve been fortunate to work with a diverse group of creative people, all of which have added value, knowledge and inspiration to my work. As a child visiting many buildings and churches with my father (an architect) and seeing his love of architecture and design has been a great influence.  It’s only in recent years I’ve realised how often architecture appears in my designs.

4) When looking for inspiration is there a particular thing you do to get inspired?

Treasure hunting outdoors with my camera! I’m always drawn back to nature it’s full of inspiration, the changing seasons adds to the variety of what you might find.

5) What has brought you to this point in your career? And what is your advice for people looking to follow in your footsteps?

Perseverance. My advice would be to get as much work experience as possible. It’s key to shaping and honing your style, whilst influencing choices you make along your career path. Patience and confidence helps! If you don’t believe in yourself it’s hard for others to do the same.