I have received some amazing inspiration to help me develop my artwork and my business over the years and I’ve tried to give back a little inspiration to the next generation of artists where I can.
Earlier this year, I was asked to run a project with eight A Level Textile students at Tudor Hall School. I worked with them in the spring and they have produced a collection of brilliant leather bag designs which we’re going to have made in the autumn, ready to be on sale in November. It’s been a fantastic project to work on so watch out later in the year for a brand new collection of unique leather pieces.
The Tudor Hall students have really kept me on my toes and reminded me that you can never stand still with your creations, you have to keep growing and learning. So with that in mind, I decided to submit a portfolio of work to apply for a Masters Degree in Textile Print at the Royal College of Art. I’m very excited to announce that, against strong competition, I have been accepted onto the MA course and will start in September!
I’ll be going ‘back to school’ for at least two days a week and I can’t wait to meet lots more inspirational artists and learn some new techniques along the way. Don’t worry though, handbags are still my passion and you’ll still find me in the studio at our shop for the rest of the week!
July is a busy month at J D’Cruz – we’re going to be showcasing our bags at the Soho Farmhouse Craft Fair, Great Tew, Chipping Norton on Saturday 28th July. That will be exciting – come along and enjoy a lovely day out!
To celebrate this glorious summer weather, we’re holding a J D’Cruz Secret Summer Sale on Friday 13th/Saturday 14th July. We’ll be making space for new designs so look out for some amazing bargains. Some items are up to 40% off and I’ll give away a free keyring with every purchase over £250.
The shop will be open 11am – 7.30pm for our Secret Summer Sale and we’ll also have some drinks and nibbles so you can have a proper browse around all the lovely handmade bags and soft furnishings on offer.
See you there!
Jas X