We kick off our new feature 'grass roots fashion' with Maria Van Well, a fashion graduate from Thames Valley University (June '08) . Maria is a single mother of 3 and has had a passion for fashion from a young age......
Name: Maria Van Well
Age: 34
Occupation: Graduate Designer
e-mail: mariavw@hotmail.co.uk
weblinks: http://www.catwalking.com/GRADUATES/GRAD_08/BA_shows/shows/THAMES-VALLEY/shows/04-Maria%20Van%20Well/index.htm & http://www.lilees.etsy.com/ (i have a few bits here for sale)
I loved your graduation collection, bold colours & innovative design detail...What was your inspiration?
My initial inspiration was my late brother Lee, he inspired me and encouraged me in every way to pursue my dream career. I called him Lilee when i was younger, and this led to using lilies as a starting point. i looked a bit more in depth at flowers and their meanings,(i.e poppies are for rememberance etc etc,)and then ran with the shapes, prints and colours for final inspiration. i was also designing with the indie teen in mind as my brother was a big fan of indie music, which was a love we both shared.
As a recent graduate, what difficulties have you encountered kick starting your career?
"Main difficulty i have faced is trying to get onto that first step. although i have had some experience in the industry by doing work placements, im finding its not enough, and basically you need at least 6-12 industry based experience to even be considered no matter how talented you are, and as a single parent with children it makes gaining more experience a tough job, as most placements dont pay a wage and i need a wage to pay child care"!!!
To what degree has the current financial climate affected your progression?
"Its generally tough as there are lots of people out there applying for the same jobs as you, who have lots of experience in the industry already, and i feel businesses are a bit more cautious when it comes to taking risks".
If you could have changed any 3 things about your degree course what would they have been?
"I'd definately say that work placements should be part of the course, with the uni's providing the links with the industry. For me more creative pattern cutting focused modules would have been good, with maybe the lower level students creating the designs with the B.A producing them. And finally more funding for shows etc "
And last but by no means least...what 5 items would be in your time capsule?
"Ooh this is a toughie.....maybe a sketchbook of my designs and one of my garments, (you never know they could fetch millions one day if i get famous), definately a mobile phone, family photos, and a dvd documentary of everyday life.
I'd like to thank Maria, for her time. She is currently looking for an opening within the fashion industry and her particular passion is pattern cutting & technical design. Please contact Maria on any of the above.
Interview: Fusion
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