Sharon Kearley is the designer of striking and contemporary, hand woven designs working from her eponymous studio. Sharon has been working within the industry for over 18 years, working on fashion, costume and styling projects. In 2009 she established her UK design firm and began lecturing at the London Metropolitan University, after working for 7 years in Spain. She also graduated from The London Institute, Chelsea School of Art, with a BA(Hons) in Textiles Design in 1995. So we are proud to bring you the Designer Insights of Sharon Kearley.
Image Credit: 1) Solid Wool 2) Adrian Sassoon 3) Phillip Jeffries 4) BaoBao Issey Miyake 5) Salt UK
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1) In your own words describe your unique style and creative aesthetic?
Striking, highly innovative bespoke woven designs that tend to verge on the non-conventional, where colour combinations and texture are paramount; inspirational influences derive from a passion for Period Costume.
2) When starting a new project, what is your creative process?
Attention to detail, research, drawing, colour studies. My work focuses on yarn behaviour, the interplay and reaction through structural manipulation. I see yarns as people with personalities, some work well together, some against each other but the outcome is always exciting.
3) Out of the creative people you have worked with, who is it that you respect and admire the most?
I work with an array of creative, like-minded people, each one bringing something different and individual to the ‘melting pot,’ with so much to learn and be inspired by. The most rewarding aspect of my practice is the work applying weave as a catalyst for healing with dementia patients and young people with emotional, physical, mental disabilities.
4) When looking for inspiration is there a particular thing you do to get inspired?
Architecture, fashion, museums and galleries and I observe my surroundings; colour combinations, contrasts, textures, line, shape and form, and of course exciting yarns. Usually each woven outcome often inspires a structure for the next.
5) What has brought you to this point in your career? And what is your advice for people looking to follow in your footsteps?
Passion and determination; future planning through creating mind maps. Be confident in your decision-making, not tempted by opportunities that aren’t part of your plan, that won’t take your career forward. Keep your knowledge and skills up-to-date. Promote yourself, your practice and above all, be confident, flexible to change and enjoy the journey.
