Last year we opened application for our pilot Graduate Studio Programme. We invited recent graduates from creative degrees that live in Tower Hamlets and surrounding boroughs to apply for a free studio for 6 months at Craft Central. They would benefit from a free studio space to develop their practise for 6 months and one-to-one mentoring from a  experienced designer-maker.

Morgan Martin (Chelsea College of Art, BA Textiles) and Almha McCartan (RCA, Textiles, MA) were the two graduates chosen from over 60 applicants. Since October 2022, Almha and Morgan have been supported with the use of a free, spacious studio at Craft Central as well as being specially paired with a  mentor. Alma was paired with Emily Jo Gibbs,a British Artist who over the last two decades has established an international reputation for her delicate textiles. In her current practice Emily creates hand-stitched Portraits and Still Lifes with a  graphic quality. Morgan was paired with Gina Pipet who specialises in printed fabric and accessories for fashion and interior. This was an opportunity to continue their practice post graduating and contribute to our unique thriving creative community, accessing peer support and skills exchange.

The exhibition brings together and celebrates the work they have produced in their time with us.

“The graduate support programme has been so beneficial for my creative practice. The first years post-graduating are tough trying to balance working, earning money, and making art. Having access to a studio without the financial burden has been incredible. It’s given me the space and ability to make new work and really push my practice to where I want it to be. The exhibition has been a great goal to work towards and it’s amazing having the support of Craft Central to make it happen. They have really supported our creative development the whole way through!

The studios at Craft central are so lovely to work in and there’s a great community of makers.

“The mentorship with Emily Jo-Gibbs has been a real highlight for me. Meeting regularly was great for keeping motivated and having someone to bounce ideas off really helped. Emily is so knowledgeable and always gave me such useful advice and so much encouragement I don’t think I could have done it without her! We will definitely stay in touch long after the programme has ended.”

Alhma  McCartan

“The past six months with Craft Central have been a crucial development period for me as a Designer. I have grown in confidence and achieved things that wouldn't have been possible without the space and support available from the programme. The one-to-one mentorship has guided me through the business strategy of my practice. I have learnt how to market my work to the public, and I now have a whole collection behind me, a debut exhibition and experience running workshops. I am super grateful for this opportunity and believe it will lead me onto my next steps as an emerging Textile Designer. “

Morgan Martin

Application for Graduate Support Programme 2024/2025 is now open. For more information and how to apply, please visit HERE

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