A GREAT Harwood textile student has high hopes for the future after being inspired by TV fashion designer Wayne Hemingway.

Former Norden High School pupil Rachel Driver is hoping to take the next step along her career path, after undertaking a two-week work experience placement with Hemingway Design in London.

Nineteen year-old Rachel, who is just completing a Foundation Diploma in Art & Design at Blackburn College, is currently displaying her work as part of the College’s ‘Made Great in Britain’ art exhibition.

Her work entitled ‘What’s beneath Me’ looks at the patterns and shapes found underneath us when we are on a journey, such as the cracks on pavements and the markings found on pavements. From this she created an upholstered chair, cushions, light fitting and canvases.

Rachel said: “Last year Wayne Hemingway came to the college to do a talk as part of Global Entrepreneurship Week.

"I was really inspired by his talk and contacted Hemingway Design to see if I could undertake work experience with them.

“I couldn’t believe it when they emailed to say they would have me. During my time there I had the opportunity to work with graphic designers, and was tasked with coming up with shapes that could be used in prints to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the Mr Men.

“I was shown how to use develop my designs on the computer and used techniques shown in the work for my art exhibition.

"The work experience gave me a real confidence boost and also inspired me to go to university to study. It was an experience that I will never forget.”

This year Blackburn College’s creative arts show features creations by Art, Design, Fashion, Photography and Media students and includes everything from paintings, photography, short films, to installations and 3D design.

The show is open to the public at the College’s Beacon Centre from Monday to Friday, 9am until 4pm until June 29.

For more information visit www.blackburn.ac.uk.