New Designers: Clara Leitao

In June, Past Master Christopher McLean May and Emily May acted as judges for the New Designers Printed Textile Prize. They awarded this Clothworkers’ Associate Prize to 23 year old Clara Leitão.

Clara recently completed her degree in Textile Design from Heriot- Watt University. She draws on her Portuguese heritage and whimsical imagination for inspiration. The influence of her homeland was evident in her award-winning collection, ‘Is It, Is It Not?’, which included decorative prints and detailed illustrations that drew on Portuguese history and folklore as well as Clara’s own personal identity.

Before finishing her degree, Clara explored Textile Design at the National Institute of Design (India) as well as Costume and Set Design at Antonio Arroio Artistic School (Portugal). Over the past few years, her work has earned her a number of honours including a commendation for printed textile designs as well as third place in knitted fabrics at the 2016 Bradford Textile Society Design Competition, and many more.

Following her award, Clara wrote:

I am thrilled and honoured to be awarded such a prestigious prize. As a recent graduate, having my efforts being valued and recognised is so meaningful and gives me confidence to move forward. The £1,000 prize will help towards the development of my practice and entering a professional career. After being awarded this prize, I was chosen through TexSelect to exhibit in Chelsea and Paris, at Première Vision. It is an absolute privilege to be given all these opportunities, knowing that I have been nominated amongst a group of very talented young designers.

You can see more of Clara’s work on her website at claraleitao.com.

Clara will be presented with her £1,000 prize at Clothworkers’ Hall during the Alumni Dinner (23 September). Sponsorship of the New Designers Associate Prize helps The Company meet its strategic objective to encourage innovation and foster talent among students and young designers – particularly those who demonstrate an advanced understanding of textile technologies and possess the ability to convert ideas into products.

Clara (left), accepts her award from Past Master Christopher McLean Mayand new Freewoman and former New Designers prize winner Emily May.