Junzaburo
Iwasawa

What made you choose to study MA Fashion Design at NTU?
“I was awarded with a Paul Smith Scholarship to study Fashion Design at NTU. I wanted to come back to England to study since I have childhood memories here in England.”

What did you enjoy most about your course?
“Sharing the same studio with all the other MA Fashion, Textiles and Knitwear Design students as it gave the opportunity to discuss work.”

Can you tell us a little bit about the collection you created while at NTU?
“My project title was 'Transformative Fashion'. It was an investigation into transformable garments that allows the wearer to participate in creating silhouettes to suit multi-social situations and identities.”

What was your biggest challenge?
“My background lies in fine art so it was a challenge for me to talk about fashion. I couldn’t draw the line between fashion and costume when I first started my MA project. By conducting practical and theoretical research I was able to discuss this with my tutors.”

How did you find the course staff?
“The course staff gave me feedback and suggested what I should focus on throughout my project. The lecturers gave inspirational talks and suggestions about how our work may be produced.”

How did you find the facilities?
“The access to the print room, laser cutters and the embroidery room was excellent. The library hours were good for me to do research and being able to connect your devices to wide screen displays helped me practise my presentations.”

How did you make friends when you first arrived at NTU?
“I went to church, used the Global Lounge to meet other international students, and attended welcome week.”

Why would you recommend studying MA Fashion Design at NTU?
“The access to the facilities and the level of attention you get from the course staff.”

What are your plans now that you have graduated?
“I shall be joining the Issey Miyake design team in Tokyo from April 2017.”