Emerging Design Talent: Nicole de Havilland

Today I am introducing new and emerging design talent which has become a regular addition to Creative Sketchbook. I was instantly drawn to Nicole de Havilland's fresh and contemporary designs she exhibited at New Designers 2012.

I love the mono-chrome hand drawn base to Nicole's work, the simplistic lines beautifully illustrate quirky aspects of nature. "My inspiration derives from the abstract shapes and patterns found within nature. I am especially attracted to poison and the ambiguity it presents. The concept of a plant seeming beautiful but actually being extremely harmful is very interesting to me. This idea influences my design development and refined colour palette." The accent highlight of canary yellow and magenta adds an interesting contrast.

Nicole has just graduated after studying for a BA (Hons) Surface Pattern Design at Swansea Metropolitan University. Below is a selection of designs from Nicole's 'Poison' graduate collection, inspiration is taken from poisonous and carnivorous plants. Enjoy!

"Initial research of drawing and photographs is an integral part of my design process, as black and white illustrations form the basis of each print." Nicole works initially from hand drawn illustrations and develops her ideas into surface pattern repeats using digital methods. I would describe my designs as bold and striking, with attention to detail. Overall, I strive to create stimulating and unique prints suited to the interior market."

Click here to view her website!