Angelica Barlaan
Textiles
Final year project
Soteria 2050 [Read more]
Seat Covering Design
This was constructed on donated fabric from Sage Automotive Interiors Ltd. The surface design was created using a combination of sublimation printing and digital embroidery.
Headrest Design
These tucks were constructed on flame retardant leatherette, aimed to be used as the vehicle's headrests.
Roof Design
Manipulated polypropylene joined with copper strips to form the roof of the vehicle. The copper has been heated and polished to create an ombre effect, which is joined using donated yarn from Sage Automotive Interiors Ltd.
Contrast
From Angelica's early photography of cities at night, she manipulated the photo to create a distorted effect.
Alert
Angelica was inspired by the graphic structures from her visual research and used them to create distinct patterns, evoking her theme.
Offset
An early fabric manipulation experiment from Angelica's project. Using Cordura (a strong, durable fabric), she has depicted geometric shapes inspired by her visual research.
Wearable Seatbelt Detail
An engineered pattern created using digital embroidery onto layered Cordura and mesh.
Seat Pattern Design
A repeated digital print conveying the graphic aesthetic of the collection.
Angelica Barlaan
Specialising in multi-media textiles, Angelica draws inspiration from unique architecture and the colours of urban environments to create purposeful and mindful designs.
The exciting advancement of the automotive industry has challenged the way we will mobilise in the future. As vehicles extend their purpose in becoming a third living space, ‘Soteria 2050’ explores the possible ways textiles will innovate to aid this phenomenon. The collection is for a concept vehicle set in 2050, used as a mobile home, centred around the rise in remote working and outdoor adventures.
Photography of dark urban settings, inspired the theme of exposure at night, highlighting one’s open vulnerability and uneasiness. The graphic architecture and evening shadows and light set the aesthetic of the collection. This is also strengthened through studies of tech-noir cinematography, Brutalist architecture and Bauhaus photography.
A combination of smooth and durable fabrics and materials fulfils the needs of the user and promotes vehicle longevity. The use of second-hand fabrics and recyclable materials supports the vital integration of sustainable textiles within future automobiles. Using diverse processes and techniques, the collection provides comfort, function, and luxury befitting for the vehicle’s purpose.
The designer aspires to continue to develop her knowledge in technical materials and innovative textiles, essential in advancing towards a sustainable future.
Final year project
Soteria 2050
Awards
In February 2018, a selection of Angelica's 'Coastal Eco' project was chosen to go to Premiere Vision Paris as part of the Loughborough University stand. The collection included techniques and processes such as fabric manipulation, hand dyeing, machine embroidery and beading.
Work Experience
From 2019 to 2020, Angelica was a Design Intern at Sage Automotive Interiors Ltd. She worked closely with the design team to meet customer briefs and company projects, enhancing her skills in trend research and colour development. Throughout her industrial placement, Angelica engaged in several projects which aided the development of her CAD skills on applications such as, Illustrator and InDesign. Additionally, Angelica had worked alongside lab technicians and engineers to gain a stronger understanding of fabric testing and manufacturing processes. Throughout her experience, she became proficient in communicating with customers and suppliers, as well as effectively managing her time. She has continued to develop as a designer, inspired by the multitude of sustainable and innovative projects she supported, which has directed her aspirations within this field.