Andrew Woolhouse – Three Dimensional Design
Andrew Woolhouse is set to showcase his collection of jewellery kits made from recycled plastics at the Robert Gordon University (RGU) Gray’s School of Art Degree Show next week.
The 24-year-old, who is originally from Barnsley but lives in Aberdeen, said the amount of waste he can go through while building models inspired him to use second hand materials for his project.
Andrew is currently studying Three Dimensional Design and his current area of focus is based around consumption and waste, specifically plastics.
He said: “My work is typically digital in nature, relying on CAD to facilitate designing and building models which I can then produce with the help of machines like printers, laser cutters and so on, allowing for quick, efficient prototyping which lets me produce tons of tests and samples.
“This volume of work is what prompted me to look towards waste, noticing just how much material I go through in such a short amount of time.
“My current work is a collection of modular jewellery kits, made from recycled plastics, which I’m hoping will help to show off the appeal of these sorts of second hand materials, as well as promote greener attitudes towards consumption by giving a hands on experience, nurturing a connection with the things we buy.
“Flowers and their colours, shapes and forms are what influence the design choices for these products.
“A lot of my work is shown through computer renders, and a large portion of my degree show will feature colourful displays of the possibilities these products can have. As well as this, I’m hoping to have a variety of pieces available for people to pick up and play with, allowing them to interact and get hands on.”
Andrew said the whole experience of university life has allowed him to broaden his perspective and helped him grow, not only as a designer, but as a person.
Reflecting over the past four years, he said: “The people I’ve been able to meet and connect with during my time here is definitely one of the biggest high points, and even after only four years, there’s more than enough memories made.
“When I arrived for my very first day, I had no real idea of what I wanted to do or where I expected to go after graduating but now I have so many aspirations and goals.
“I’m hoping to stick around and take advantage of the graduate in residence programme here at Gray’s which would allow me to return and make use of the facilities while also having a chance to help out with the remaining students, giving insights into what I’ve experienced, and help them wherever I can.”
In the future, Andrew hopes to take his current work forward to potentially be a marketable product, manufactured on mass and sold to consumers.
“Hopefully somewhere along the way, I’ll be able to break into the creative industry and have the opportunity to positively affect the day-to-day lives of the people around me,” he concluded.
Andrew’s project will be on display at The Gray’s School of Art Degree Show, which runs from 15-22 June and will showcase work by students of all disciplines.