Our undergraduate summer show opens in one week. As part of our In The Studio series, we caught up with third year BA Textile Design student Archie Dickens to find out a bit more about his practice and experience at Chelsea.
What have you enjoyed most about studying at Chelsea?
I’ve loved the social aspects of being at Chelsea. Meeting people on other courses and the general working environment is great, as well as the freedom to do what I want. The tutors and technicians, Timothy Andrews, Farah Govanni, Margaret Campbell, Julia Pines, Tomoko Yamanaka and many others have been so supportive and offered me constant invaluable guidance.
Please tell us about what you are working on for your final show.
I’m working on a set of experimental garments which I’ve been creating on Chelsea’s industrial knitting machines. The garments are not necessarily polished but conceptually based around my experience of being taught the Latin epic poem Aeneid by Virgil along with my travels in Greece.
What do you see yourself doing after you graduate? What are your career ambitions?
I have just been offered a place to study Womenswear Knit at the Royal College of Art. After that I see myself going into a career in fashion. However, I feel the fashion industry is fundamentally flawed, with respect to trend and I want to change this.
What has been your greatest challenge so far in working towards the degree show?
Overcoming technical problems during the knitting process.
What would you say to someone who is thinking about doing your course? Any advice?
Do it. You will not regret it if you are hardworking and conscientious. Take part in the third year buddying system. It is an invaluable lesson in professionalism and how to put together a successful degree show.
Describe you experience at Chelsea in 3 words.
Experimental, free and nurturing.
Follow Archie’s designs on his website or Instagram
Find out more about BA Textile Design and our 2016 Chelsea summer shows.