Having felt like I had run myself into the ground towards the end of third year I decided to take some time off during the summer and give my mind a rest! I felt like I needed to step back from what I was doing to be able to go into my final year with a clear and focussed mind.
Helping my friends across several courses with their Degree Show really gave me an insight into how much work will be involved next year and although daunting, I feel I am ready to get going! I have really learnt form them this year about the finer details and what things really can’t be left to the last minute. Seeing them on opening night beside their work was a real proud moment and I was so glad I had the chance to be part of it all, not only for them but for my piece of mind as I move into that time in life! This was followed by my birthday (surprise party organised by them), their Graduation ceremony and Grad Ball, which was just the best week and an amazing way to celebrate and see them off!
A speedy move was then made down to London to catch the tail end of the Jewellery section of New Designers. I can’t begin to explain my reaction when I first arrived and understood the true scale of the building and exhibition. I was totally overwhelmed and I am now thanking that I experienced that this year and not when it is my turn! It was incredible to be able to see so many different designers in such a small space. It really gave me an understanding of what an undertaking it will be next year. I also managed to get to the Hallmark Salon exhibition at Somerset House which displayed the work of 86 extraordinary UK based Jewellers and Silversmiths. Not only was it a great chance to see their work and meet with them but it also allowed me to gain some contacts for my Design Enterprise module.
After a whirlwind few days visiting exhibitions and galleries I began the job of mucking in with my friends to help them set up their Product Design space for New Designers Part 2. I visited it on and off throughout the week but I loved being part of it and I managed to get to a talk about preparing yourself and your class for bringing your work down the following year; something which I know will be invaluable in the coming months!
After that it was a case of visiting family, a Scotland road trip where I bagged my first Munro, brainstorming for my own degree show project and then working the madness that is the Edinburgh Fringe Festival!
Fingers crossed I am ready to head back to uni with a clear head and now focus on my final year. I am filled with a mixture of intrepidation and excitement but hoping I can combine that and create something great! Heres hoping anyway.
KATIE WIGHTMAN 