Students’ designs using leather have left members of a historical livery company “blown away” by their creativity.
The Worshipful Company of Leathersellers, which was formed in the 14th century, made its annual visit to De Montfort University Leicester (DMU) along with representatives from the Trade Board and Court where they were able to tour the degree show, showcasing final collections from Arts, Design and Humanities (ADH) courses.
“We are absolutely blown away by what we have seen today,” said the Master, Clare Lennon. “The students have such a passion for the industry and the enthusiasm they have shown and continue to show is incredible.”
The Leathersellers which began life to represent the skills of crafts people working in the leather industry, today provides funding for technical education, research and grants to support university students.
Visitors had an opportunity to see some of the outcomes of students who have been part of a major collaboration between DMU and the Museum of Leathercraft, Artifacts Live: A Legacy in Leather, a collaborative project with the Museum of Leathercraft.
Students have learned traditional leather artisanal techniques and been inspired by artifacts loaned to DMU, which range from a 17c Japanese Samurai riding saddle to Balinese shadow puppets, a 14th century casket and a Doge’s gondola chair from the height of the Renaissance period in Venice.
Each student selected two artifacts to research and use as inspiration. The ‘Artifactors’, have created new work which will go on display alongside the original artifacts in a special exhibition at DMU Museum, curated by Elizabeth Wheelband.
Ms Lennon added: “Projects like this are crucial for keeping leather skills alive. The students have been absolutely inspired by it and really embraced the heritage aspects of the project.
“Considering how concerned DMU are re sustainability and leather as a sustainable practice it is an important project for all of us.”
DMU’s creative courses have a reputation for technical expertise and supporting students learning traditional crafts. The Leathersellers Company who are long-standing supporters of DMU and student work were welcomed by the Vice-Chancellor Professor Katie Normington and ADH Dean Jill Cowley during the visit.
Associate Professor Gillian Proctor, who organised the visit said it was an honour for DMU to host the entire board and she was delighted they had been impressed with the students’ work.
"Our association with the Leathersellers Company was established in 1982, when a standard of excellence was established. That relationship has grown immeasurably through the Design Awards and we have been lucky enough to reap the benefits of some incredible work emerging from our students. To host not only the Master, but also representatives of the Court and Trade Board is an honour for us.
"I was thrilled to see their response to the students’ emerging developments for the project, who have worked hard and are now beginning to reap the benefits. It is heartwarming to see the level of technical excellence and innovation which the students continue to showcase with each year of this Award."
- First prize, £1,500 to Ana Del Rio Mullarkey, Fashion Design
- First runner up, £1,000 to Lucy Dollery, Fashion Textile Design
- Second runner up, £750 to Olivia Bodak, Contour Fashion Innovation MA
- Commendations of £200 to Donghyeon Kim Fashion, Imogen Sullivan Contour Fashion, Martha Lavery Fine Art, and Charlie Gower Contour Fashion
Our grateful thanks go to Judges Alistair Tusting, Leathersellers Company and Charlie Laurie, Saddlers Company for their time, patience and expertise.
Learn more about Artifacts Live. The Artifacts Live team are Associate Professor Gillian Proctor, Dr Mary O’Neill, Elizabeth Wheelband, Stephen Peachey, and Dr Rhianna Briars.
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Posted on Monday 3 July 2023