Sigrid
Mularczyk

Sigrid studied BA (Hons) Costume Design and Making. During her second year Sigrid went on a summer school exchange to Donghua University in China.

What made you choose to study at NTU?
“I had heard many good things about the course, and had gone to see several of the costume design exhibitions. I liked that the course focused on a range of different aspects of costume, and that it was both design and make.”

What do you enjoy most about your course?
“I don’t think I would be able to pick something; I love everything about it. I love the design and make projects we do, the lectures, life-drawing classes, computer sessions etc. Our lecturers are amazing, and my classmates are all fun and creative people.”

Can you tell us a little bit about the Hainsworth Fabrics Jacket Competition?
“The project worked pretty much like any other make project in terms of how the production sessions went. This year for us (Year Two), the project briefs changed so our work became more personal, and linked costume design and costume make together.

“The jacket designs for the Hainsworth Jacket Project were created during our previous design project – ‘Into the Woods’. A visit to Hainsworth helped as we were given a tour of the factory and had a look at possible fabrics.

“My jacket was for the Witch, who in my design was a gardener. With the story of ‘Into the Woods’ I was influenced by the idea that the Witch keeps magic beans on her jacket, perhaps even grows them on it. The use of different types of Hainsworth fabric layered in strips and stitched down gave depth and a very organic and beanstalk-like effect. The fabric and bead bean pods, the sprinkling of beads and sequins adding to it and when they catch the light it gives the impression of “magic”.”

How did it feel for your jacket design to be recognised by Hainsworth Fabrics?
“I felt really happy. I’m very proud of my jacket and to have anyone say they like it is great to hear, but to hear it from such a prestigious company and the people who made the fabrics is something else. There were so many stunning jackets with so much character, beautiful sewing skills and personal touches; I really didn’t envy our judges’ jobs in choosing a winner, and the fact that there ended up being two of us just shows how difficult it was to decide.”

Has the course included any speakers / lecturers from industry?
“Helen Tsingos came and gave a talk about her work and experience, as well as a backstage tour of a show she was working on. I found it very useful and interesting, both in what she talked about, and also seeing the show’s costume designs. She didn’t sugar coat working in the industry and gave a lot of good tips.”

What do you think about the course staff?
“I think we’re incredibly lucky to have the current staff working in relation to the course; they are amazing. They are supportive, patient and enthusiastic about what they do. They are always willing to help, offering one to ones, running through a demonstration again if you’re confused, and just wanting to make sure everyone is fine. The course wouldn’t be what it is without them.”

What do you like about studying and living in Nottingham?
“I actually commute into Nottingham, but I love the city and I’ve studied in Nottingham for almost five years now.”

In a nutshell, why would you recommend your course / NTU to someone looking to study in that area?
“You get the city right next to the university, there is no end of opportunities and support open to you, and the staff and course are all you could ask for.”

Summer school exchange to Donghua University in Shanghai

What did you enjoy about your exchange to Donghua University?  
“I enjoyed learning about the history of the traditional Chinese dress, and the experience of being in Shanghai. I was very fortunate to have gotten the full-fee scholarship; it was such an amazing experience for me.

“In terms of my CV, this course on it will show my enthusiasm, commitment and interest in learning more about cultures other than my own.”

What was the highlight of your time there?
“I loved the language classes and the lectures involving Chinese culture and symbolism. The two-day trip to Hangzhou was great, and I found some of the fashion-related lessons really interesting.”

What did you get up to in your spare time?
“I feel like I did quite a lot in my spare time. My friends and I went to temples, markets, the Yu Yuan Garden, galleries, museums, and so on, as well as just exploring the city. We looked around the Tea City and went to the Bund and with the help of Vimo, one of the course organisers, we were also able to book tickets to go and see a Chinese Opera; which I'm so glad we did!”

What was the most valuable lesson you learnt whilst on exchange and would you recommend it to other students?  
“The biggest thing I think I learnt whilst on this exchange is that I want to travel more. I would definitely recommend the course to future students because it really was a once in a lifetime experience, and something you'll remember for the rest of your life.”