Following a group tutorial last week, after showing my finalised collections and concepts, Helen proposed that I research this designer- Rachel Kelly. She had actually lectured at NUA (I think in our first year), and her design work is based around creating ‘Interactive Wallpaper’!!, so she was a great source of both inspiration and information regarding design processes and techniques. Kelly’s business involves creating bespoke designs for people in the homes, and also for large companies, therefore her work is based on commission and is always appropriate and personal. Similarly to my work, Kelly’s drawing inspiration comes from flowers and nature, and her inspired designs have been used within a variety of settings including hospitals, libraries and museums. The first image pictured above is taken from her website [http://interactivewallpaper.co.uk] [http://interactivewallpaper.co.uk/Commissions-and-Exhibitions/Armitt-Library.aspx] and was one of her museum and library commissions. The material used within this particular design was transparent vinyl, cut and installed by hand. The second image is one of Kelly’s wall stickers, which can be applied to any flat surface. It is further stated on her website that ‘new materials which can be used as an alternative to vinyl are being developed, including paper based stickers and sustainable adhesive based stickers.’
The idea following this research involved making my silver wall hangings interactive, but in a different way. Due to the fact that they are typically large stickers, they could be cut up and used as individual stickers, whether that involves cutting around different flowers and leaves, or simply cutting different shapes out of the silver vinyl background. This could be an opportunity for an art based, craft led activity with the individuals who form my target audience. It is interactive and creative, and would also give the young people the choice of where the art work goes, putting the placement of the work into their literal hands. In a way, my target audience would become the curators.
