Four students from Gateshead College and one from The Northern School of Art have had their artwork displayed in a Seven Stories exhibition.

Inspired by Seven Stories’ current Betty Larom exhibition featuring Larom’s mid-century illustrations and their appearance in fashion designer Molly Goddard’s Autumn Winter ’22 Collection, students were asked to create their own apparel designs inspired by children’s literature, with a view to the most impactful being displayed in the exhibition later in the year. 

Aimee Philipson, Director at Seven Stories, explains:

“We invited students in to Seven Stories to see the exhibition and then to use their course knowledge and creativity to design their own literature-based apparel. We couldn’t be happier with the work that was submitted and it’s been great to see the students’ processes, skills and inspirations come to fruition in their final designs.”

The chosen artwork added to the exhibition includes a dress by Sophie Clayton inspired by the White Rabbit in Alice in Wonderland, a t-shirt by Natalie Gaines inspired by Wind in the Willows, a range of shoes by Libby Bannister inspired by the Harry Potter books, a party dress by Grace Bradael inspired by Ursula from The Little Mermaid and outfits by Paige Trainer Murray inspired by each character in the Winnie the Pooh books.

Kathy Richards, Art and Design teacher at Gateshead College, said:

“Our second year Art and Design students have loved working on the Seven Stories briefs as part of their course, as there was so much creative freedom but with a specific focus. Fashion design led to new creative explorations for many, and the bonus of seeing their work in the exhibition is a real boost to our learners’ confidence and aspirations.  

“Seven Stories were so supportive in helping them gain experience of working to a brief and developing skills to meet real-world design challenges. They gave our learners really positive feedback too which is so crucial. We look forward to working with Seven Stories more in the future.”

Pat Chapman, Vice Principal (External Relations & Employability) at The Northern School of Art, said:

"We’re delighted to work with Seven Stories as part of this wonderful exciting exhibition which provides an opportunity for our student creatives to exhibit their interpretation of Betty Larom’s work. We would encourage everyone to visit and see the work of an established artist as well as our exciting designers and illustrators of the future.”

Entry to Seven Stories is free and visitors can see the exhibition on Level 6 between 10am and 5pm every day except Wednesdays until the end of January 2023.