Kitty Vu

For the theme “Taking Pattern,” I explored how simple shapes and everyday forms can be repeated, transformed, and layered to create new visual rhythms. Instead of focusing on one place or one inspiration source, I allowed myself to experiment freely with colour, texture, and mark-making. Many of my drawings started from very simple motifs such as flowers, leaves, spirals, or organic shapes. By repeating them in different scales, directions, and colour combinations, they gradually developed into patterns.

I also experimented with mixed materials like oil pastels, markers, acrylic paint, tape . Each medium created a different type of texture, which helped me understand how patterns can change depending on the tool or surface. Some pieces focus on soft, blended colours, while others use bold outlines or overlapping layers to create movement. Even when I used the same motif, I tried to push it further by changing the composition, density, or the way shapes interact with each other.

Overall, this project helped me understand that patterns can come from very simple ideas, and the key is how I repeat, distort, and develop the shapes. It also made me more confident in experimenting with colour and playful mark-making, which I hope to continue developing in future textile design work.

These works were inspired by a visit to Brick Lane. With the theme “Taking Color,” Brick Lane felt like the perfect place to explore because of its bold street art and layered graffiti. I played with different colours, quick drawings, and overlapping marks, similar to what you normally see on the walls there. I used materials like chalk, markers, and acrylic paint to capture that messy and energetic atmosphere. I also layering some of my photos that i took in Bricklane.

Through this project, I learned how colours can interact when they clash or overlap, and how layering can create a strong visual impact. Brick Lane encouraged me to be more experimental and less controlled in my process. It helped me understand how a real environment can influence my ideas and how I can turn my observations into creative work.

In the first few weeks of the term, the biggest challenge for me was not being able to identify the direction or visual style I wanted to pursue. I had many ideas in mind, yet they were fragmented and lacked coherence, and I didn’t know how to turn them into actual outcomes. I kept drawing the way I always had, relying on instinct, but soon I realised how dull my work looked: too simple, too unrefined, and missing the technical depth required. Even with a broad theme like “nature,” I approached it superficially by only drawing flowers without any real exploration. I came to understand that my previous casual and careless working habits are no longer suitable in a more professional and academic environment

Gradually, I learned that to improve, I need to build my process more systematically—from forming ideas and gathering inspiration, to choosing materials, executing techniques, and evaluating results. I have to constantly question myself: Why did I choose this approach? Does it truly reflect the theme? I also need to push myself to explore materials, experiment with techniques, and combine them in ways that add depth and uniqueness to my designs.

I know this is only the beginning. If I don’t challenge myself, step outside my comfort zone, and keep learning, I will remain stagnant. Reflecting on the way I work, how I respond to pressure, and how I search for authenticity in my creative process helps me understand what I need to change. I believe that once I am clear about what I want and what I need to do, I will be able to approach future projects with more confidence and explore many more aspects of textile print design.