Q&A: Remy Goddard – Joules Print Designer Award winner

British retailer
Joules has a long standing tradition of supporting the next generation of
designers, and as part of its celebration to mark its 30th anniversary this
year, FashionUnited were given the opportunity to talk to the brand’s
latest print design talent, Remy Goddard, who won the Joules Print Award at
the 2018 New Designers, which honours visionary design of students from
more than 200 creative courses.

The Joules Print Award called on design students to design a print
worthy of a Joules collection that shared “their passion for colour,
possess a wonderful imagination and most importantly have a cracking sense
of humour” to win a 500 pound cash prize as well as a two week paid work
placement within the brand’s in-house design studio, and for their
commercial portfolio review by one of Joules senior design team.

Commenting on the importance of the New Designers showcase, Joules
product director, Laura Douglas, said in 2017: “Over the years the
exhibition has proved pivotal in helping us to find brilliant up and coming
designers that have gone on to work with us for many years.”

Goddard, a student at Leeds Art University, impressed the judges with
her seaside illustration, which they stated “personifies Joules’ playful
side” as her illustrations had a “lovely contemporary feel that were akin
to the central themes Joules explore every season”.

Five Minutes With… Remy Goddard

FashionUnited chatted to Remy Goddard over e-mail to find out about her
passion for design, what it was like to work at Joules, as well as her
plans for after she graduates.

What did you study and where?

I studied Printed Textiles and Surface Pattern Design at Leeds Arts
University.

Have you always been a fan of the brand?

Absolutely! I have always loved the brand and have a few things in my
wardrobe from Joules.

Tell us about how you got into design and about your winning piece.

I got into design by combining my love of drawing with textiles and
realising the potential of creating something that could be applied to lots
of different products. After completing work experience in my second year
of university, I understood the commercial importance of design and became
more aware of my identity as a designer.

My winning piece was a collection of screen printed designs inspired by
summertime trips to the English coast and countryside.

Did you always have a passion for design? What inspires your work?

I have always loved drawing and crafting things ever since I was
little, but my passion for illustration began at university. My work is
mostly inspired by the outdoors, but I also love creating conversational
prints and drawing things with lots of character such as animals and
people.

What team did you work with on your placement?

I assisted the kids wear print design team which was really fun. I also
had the opportunity to help out with womenswear which really challenged my
versatility as a designer.

What was a typical day like on your placement with Joules?

In a typical day I would usually spend most of my time drawing,
painting and digitally putting designs together. I was also involved in
meetings with the senior design team to discuss ideas and consider how
prints work together as a collection.

Were there any challenges with your Joules placement?

I found some tasks a little challenging as I was slightly out of my
comfort zone using a more realistic handwriting to paint animals and
florals.

What did you enjoy the most?

I really enjoyed seeing the designs come together as a collection and
gaining an insight into the process that underpins the gorgeous prints.

What do you think is the most important thing you’ve learnt from your
time at Joules?

I’ve really developed my commercial awareness at Joules and the
importance of understanding what the customer wants. Sometimes a design can
look really great on its own but it’s so important to consider the
appropriateness for a particular product or customer.

What are your plans after you graduate?

I have a freelance project with a greeting card publisher and I also
wish to develop my own portfolio, especially after learning so much and
being so inspired at Joules.

What advice would you give those looking to take the next step in the
their design/fashion career?

Gain as much experience as you can and find your niche – being original
and doing what you love will really help you stand out in the industry.

What’s next for you?

I wish to work on more freelance projects and develop my personal brand
as a designer and illustrator.

Images: courtesy of Joules