Meet Olivia Fletcher from Northumbria University, who is the Fashion Illustration Award Winner at GFW22.

How do you feel about winning a GFW22 award?

I feel so proud. For me, winning a GFW award has been a huge goal from the start of my university experience. Now to have achieved it seems quite surreal. I have always drawn, and now to be recognised, by such talented people, for my hard work is amazing.

What was the inspiration starting point for your award-winning FMP?

Otherness, my FMP brand, aims to give freedom to people through quirky and inclusive clothing. I want my work to make people feel welcome and accepted.

My collection concept is called Antique Queens, taking inspiration from queer frontiers, collectible art and my Grandparents. I have used my illustration to depict my research, development and designs in a creative way, using my drawing style to bring joy to the viewer.

What skills did you learn and develop during the production of your FMP?

I think one of the most useful skills I have learnt is how to properly develop an idea. I feel that my work is more successful after taking a little bit of time to properly research and try out different things rather than sticking with my first thought. My final outcome would had been very different if I hadn鈥檛 used this skill.

What were some challenges that you faced in producing your FMP and how did you overcome these?

I always make my work very person, which makes it challenging to detach from. My final project took a lot of inspiration from my belongings, grandparents and personal values. This made it difficult when receiving any constructive criticism as it meant so much to me. On the other hand, my personal approach has made the outcome something I am very proud of!

Are there any messages or major themes in your FMP that you want people to take away? If so, how did you choose to communicate them?

My main message from my FMP is to welcome people into your space and make them feel more accept. I have designed my brand for a diverse customer who might not see themselves in other parts of the industry. I hope people can look at the work I have produced and feel like they could be a part of it.

What is an aspect of the fashion industry that you want to help improve or have a positive impact on?

I would love for more people to feel involved in the fashion industry. During my time at university I have heard so many people say, 鈥淥h, you do fashion. I could never do that.鈥� The fashion industry is such a vast and creative space where there is room for a lot of people. I hope moving forward it becomes more welcoming so more people feel part of it.

What form does your FMP take? Is it a collection of clothing, book, presentation, etc? If relevant, how did you source the materials for the project?

On my course, we had to create a brand, design a collection for it and promote the launch. My portfolio ended up being very illustration focused, representing my ethos and research through drawing. For one of the jackets that I made for my collection, I upcycled all of my Gromp鈥檚 old shirts. This has added a more personal touch to my project, creating something that will always remind me of him.

What are your plans for the near future (further study/ internship/ work?) now that you've finished your BA?

I would like to enter into the fashion industry and gain more experience working with different companies. Alongside this, I would like to continue to push myself creatively to make clothing and illustrations for myself and others to enjoy.