Wire Wonderland, Hayley Dix
ARTS THREAD starts a new series of Q&As with designers and makers who will be exhibiting at New Designers One Year On this summer. First up is Hayley Dix who will be showing her work in Part 1 June 27-30 2012.
ARTS THREAD: Tell us a little about your background?
Hayley Dix: I am a 2011 graduate of Middlesex University, who studied Design Interior and Applied Arts. My work is inspired by subjects relevant to science and the natural world and often aims at telling a story or educating my viewers. I have an interest in a wide variety of materials, from thread to wire, from paper to acrylic. So far these qualities have led me to create a wide variety of works, including, acrylic brooches, paper lighting, and interactive displays.
AT: What will you be showing at One Year On?
HD: Since graduating I have developed a collection of wire and wood drawings which will be on display during Part 1 of New Designers. Currently my drawings include birds, foxes, and squirrels which can sit on a surface, hang or fix to the wall.
AT: Can you tell us the inspiration behind the wire and wood drawings?
HD: I have mentioned that I am inspired by science and the natural world; there is definitely no exception here. These recent drawings are driven by the wildlife that surrounds me, particularly birds, which I find fascinating; I just love the variety of characters which they display. I also really like the idea of the history behind the wood that I use. By collecting wood that has fallen from the trees I feel that I am almost continuing its lifespan by incorporating it into one of my pieces. This fits within the story telling trait of my works.
AT: What are you looking forward to most at OYO?
HD: I cannot wait for the atmosphere that comes from having so many creative minds under one roof, this inspires me massively. I am also excited about meeting new people who have a genuine interest in my work. When I am making I often think about where this piece of work will end up? Who will give it a home? As well as were they might display it? It is almost as if waiting for a new chapter to be written in my ‘story’.
AT: What do you hope to gain by exhibiting at OYO?
HD: Exhibiting at New Designers last year definitely helped with my confidence, it taught me to have belief in what I do; I am hoping that this year can develop on that further. Perhaps I may even find homes for some of my little birds; that would be brilliant.
Meet Hayley Dix and the One Year On exhibitors in Part 1 June 27-30 2012. Part 2 runs July 04-07 2012.
