Anja Cox Cunningham
BA (Hons) Textiles in Practice
I am a multi-disciplinary material designer. My practice is driven by my passion for sport and a dedication to environmental sustainability. With the global climate precariously balanced and key natural resources in short supply, I have devoted my work to creating sustainable outdoor and performance wear which is both beautiful and functional. Every aspect of my work considers material sustainability from the surface of my textiles, printed with non-toxic inks onto recycled or up cycled fabric which is then insulated with a range of repurposed everyday waste materials. I design 3D printed zips and fastenings designed for lifecycle deconstruction and then reuse. Reusing and recycling waste products is not a barrier to the creation of beautiful, functional, performance wear garments and accessories. My final year project ‘Trash to Treasure’ encompasses circular design principles to help tackle the global waste tragedy. I created a hyper-functional product sample library with surface patterns inspired by the healing properties of amethysts, which gives development ideas and innovative solutions for a wide range of clothing, accessories and products. We are rapidly moving into an uncertain future - the time for change is now, and I want to be a part of the solution.
