Shanghai-based design graduate exhibits at Devon Guild of Craftsmen

University graduate Sadie Zhang is featuring in an exhibition at the prestigious Devon Guild of Craftsmen.

Sadie, a designer maker who focuses on ceramics and mixing materials, graduated from the University’s BA (Hons) 3D Design course in 2018.

Her work appears in the Graduate Showcase at the Devon Guild, and is on display until Wednesday 15 May 2019.

Sadie, who since graduation has been based in Shanghai, won the Devon Guild of Craftsmen’s visual art prize in June 2018.

Her work takes clothing as a starting point, driven by a love of its rich texture and flexibility. By imprinting the textures and patterns of fabric, and applying similar colours to her ceramics, Sadie’s creations enable people to physically interact with the same texture in a different medium.

Her work, though, links clothing and ceramics through function and emotion as well as through texture: she has created objects such as a teapot that embodies the texture and undulations of a sweater, both of which bring people warmth. Sadie uses her understanding of the tactile, emotional and functional aspects of clothing to inform the form and function of her ceramics.

Roy Tam, a Lecturer in 3D Design at the University of Plymouth, said:

“It is fantastic that Sadie is continuing to benefit from the network of UK contacts she made during her time at the University. Her invitation to be a part of the Devon Guild show reflects her talent, skill and creative vision, all of which grew and blossomed through the course of her degree.

I’m sure she will continue to enjoy success and acclaim both here in the UK and in China, and I look forward to hearing of her future achievements.”

Devon Guild’s Director Tessa Stone added: