Fashion students strut their stuff on virtual catwalk in Galashiels
Last updated 5th Jun 2023
Heriot-Watt University's School of Textiles and Design is opening its doors in Galashiels to the public this week.
Around 160 students are putting their work on display, in the High Mill building at Netherdale, as part of this year's Graduate Showcase.
One of those taking part is Niamh Cochrane. The 21-year-old is showcasing a collection inspired by brain scans. She came up with the idea to reflect the time she spent caring for her grandparents - one of whom has dementia - during her final year.
“Graduating from the Fashion course this year feels like a massive achievement for me," Niamh explained, "as I've had continuing caring responsibilities for both of my grandparents throughout my final honours' year.
"Setting up my display at the university's degree show really gave me a sense of accomplishment and I hope to continue working in fashion design, which is something I’ve always loved and strived to do.”
One of the key features of the show is a virtual catwalk, where visitors will see students model their garments.
The theme for this year’s graduate showcase is Equilibrium, chosen to convey a sense of poise and balance after the disruptive years of Covid.
David Cavallaro, Head of Discipline and Project Lead for the Degree Show at Heriot-Watt School of Textiles and Design, said: “It’s been great to be fully back on campus this year and to be able to work directly with the students again.
“Our end-of-year degree show is really important, as it celebrates the hard work of our students over the last four years and gives them a chance to showcase their work to potential employers, not only here in the UK, but also globally.”
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Professor Fiona Waldron, Executive Dean of Heriot-Watt School of Textiles and Design, added: “It’s always a complete joy to me at this time of year to watch our Graduate Showcase come together and to appreciate the tremendous creativity and skill of our wonderfully creative students. Despite a tough couple of years for everyone, I’m more confident than ever that our graduates have great opportunities ahead of them.”
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