Rachel Reynolds creates an eclectic collection of printed interior textiles and homeware. Designs combine traditional hand techniques such as screen printing, fabric dyeing and Lino printing with digital technology.
I sent Rachel over the Q&A questions and it was great to read her responses, which I hope you enjoy as much as I did...
ABOUT
Rachel graduated from Loughborough University, with a BA (Hons) in Printed Textiles. After receiving an award from the Southern Arts Board and becoming a Prince's Trust supported business, Rachel was able to develop her work and continues to work as a freelance textile designer / artist and tutor.
In 2012 Rachel completed an MA in textile design (Distinction) at Winchester School of Art. This enhanced her existing practice of bespoke screen printed textiles, and enabled Rachel to extend her product line to include; furnishing fabrics, wallpapers, light shades, bone china mugs and Perspex wall art.
Rachel has experience of working to commission and these have included: large scale contemporary backdrops within churches and building atria, alongside smaller wall hangings and textile pieces for the domestic interior.
In 2015 Rachel became Part-Time Digital Textiles Technician at Winchester School of Art. She provides technical support for Fashion and Textile Design students in Digital Mimaki Printing, delivers workshops and demonstrations to BA and MA students in fabric dyeing and CAD, alongside offering practical support in the use of specialist equipment.
Website: www.rachel-reynolds.co.uk
Instagram: @rachelreynoldstextiles
Describe your creative style in 3 words.
Eclectic, hand drawn, unique
What made you decide to be an Artist?
I hadn’t initially intended to set up my own business, but after graduating I started to make hand printed textile work to commission and as the work gradually built and new opportunities arose, I realised how much I enjoyed it and wanted it to continue. My work has changed and developed along the way and i’m still as passionate and excited about each project that I get to create, collaborate, and participate in.
What are you most proud of so far in your career, any highlights you’d like to share?
The variety of the projects I’ve been involved in. From heritage community/public art projects, to hand painting large scale hand painted textiles for churches and hospitals to creating smaller interior products for domestic interiors, along with a bit of live painting at conference events!
Which artist or designer inspires you?
Too many to mention! But definitely Marthe Armitage
Favourite tool you use in your creative practice?
Pencil
What top tip would you give to anyone who would like to turn their creative passion into their career?
Keep persevering and be a good listener…listen to feedback and learn from it.
What are you reading now?
Little Fires Everywhere, Celeste NG
What music are you listening to at work/in your studio?
BBC Radio 6
First app you open on your phone in the morning?
BBC News
Favourite Tipple?
G&T
Favourite flower or plant?
Thistle
Are you named after anyone?
Nope
Tea or Coffee?
Oooh hard one...coffee.
Summer or Winter?
Summer
Red or Green?
Green
