As we approach the LCF Class of 2022 showcase and celebration from 13 July 2022, we take a look at some of the work created by this year's graduating cohort. #LCFClassOf2022 will showcase the best of graduating talent with a catwalk, salon shows and an exhibition at Truman Brewery with an extended list of fashion industry insiders attending. Work will be displayed from our business, design and media schools, including fashion, accessories, fashion film, fashion photography, VR experiences and more.
We caught up with BA (Hons) Fashion Visual Merchandising and Branding graduate Marco Bodi, whose final work focuses on using sensory art when it comes to customer experience whilst shopping in-store.
I have always been passionate about art and its expression through multiple platforms. Because of this, I wanted to incorporate this element into my final major project to create something that would truly represent me as a final design. The goal of my installation is to create something which would bring the single person to use the human senses as much as possible. Sensory art must be visually appealing and transmit a sense of trust in people, inviting them to join with the space to be effective.
The final design represents the outcome of wanting to create a store that incorporates the concept of Fashion as it mainly focuses on immersing the customer. The completed installation, which takes the name of Onda (meaning ‘Wave’ in Italian), describes the soft and delicate moves of the sea, providing a more sensorial and appealing atmosphere.
My idea aims to represent something new and create an adaptable format that applies to different stores' layouts and brands.
With the addition of using sensory art inside retail stores, it can represent a much more distinctive way for brands to achieve a better and more recognizable image. The goal is to invite the customer inside the store for the product because of the visual appeal and desire to create a new experience.
The purpose is to invite the customer inside the store for the product because of the visual appeal and desire to create a new experience.
Combining Fashion and Art within the same store design; mainly focusing on using Sensory Art to stimulate people by using the 5 human senses, came by researching different topics such as human benefits, current customer trends, and immersive experiences.
Using sensory art inside retail stores could represent a more distinctive way for brands to achieve a better and more recognizable image. In my opinion, following considerable research on what can bring benefits to humans, my idea represents the most effective way of consumer interaction with the environment.
The final installation represents a fundamental part of the project outcome: the store design realized for Sandro for the new hypothetical summer campaign. Because of this, the production of the piece and installation in the store was challenging as it had to be finalised within a short period. What helped me go through these challenges, was being highly organised in managing my time.
The main highlights of my course have been the large number of opportunities provided for students, not only by the Graduate Showcase but also the chance to participate in student competitions. However, my biggest takeaway from this course is mainly building my personal contacts with course tutors and the help I received during the past three years. What has been most helpful for me was that I’ve learnt how to manage my time best, making the most of my life experiences, and appreciating the things we encounter, making me prepared for my next step.
My biggest hope is to be happy and find a job that satisfies me and allows me to constantly express myself. Furthermore, I want to be surrounded by people who have a positive influence on me and cheer about the fact of being together. I am confident that determination and a positive attitude will help me to achieve my goals in life whilst also pushing myself out of my comfort zone.
Want to read more about Marco Bodi’s ONDA Campaign? Head to the UAL Graduate Showcase.