Artist, Designer & Researcher
working with 3-dimensional textiles, constructed surfaces and material innovation.
As an artist my practice is driven by the desire to create 3-dimensional forms and sculptural surfaces. I initially develop my ideas through experimentation in paper, creating ‘3-dimensional drawings’. They explore the impact of space, pattern and form; enabling me to later develop my work using constructed textile techniques. My practice combines in depth research with process-led ideas that are strongly influenced by the fibres and materials I work with. I am fascinated by the ability to transform a 2-dimensional fibre into a 3-dimensional form through experimentation with innovative self-developed processes. My background in knit textiles underpins my artistic practice and my work often combines fabric manipulation and construction techniques alongside hand-flat machine knitting. I take an experimental approach by engaging with natural materials, traditional techniques and modern processes. These elements come together to create 3-dimensional structural work that is tactile and malleable; inspired by pushing the boundaries of fibre, form and process.
Previous exhibitions include; The Royal Ulster Academy Annual Exhibition, R-Space Gallery, Craft NI, Ulster University and Showcase Ireland.
Instagram
@mayatoddstudio
CV
Education
2019 - 2023 First Class BA Honours Degree (with distinction in Professional Practice), Textile Art, Design and Fashion, Ulster University, Belfast
2018 - 2019 Foundation Diploma, Art and Design, Belfast Metropolitan College, Belfast
Selected Exhibitions
2024
Reactions, Craft NI, Belfast
Creative Peninsula, Ards Art Centre, Newtownards
Graduate in Residence Show, Belfast School of Art, Belfast
Seanchaí, Digital Art Studio, Belfast
2023
Materials, Messages and Meaning, R-Space Gallery, Lisburn
Royal Ulster Academy Annual Exhibition, Ulster Museum, Belfast
Pathways, Craft NI, Belfast
Graduate Degree Show, Ulster University, Belfast
Residencies
At Home Residency, Digital Art Studios, Belfast
(Supported by Arts Council of Northern Ireland), 2023 - 2024
Graduate in Residence, Belfast School of Art, Belfast
(Supported by BSOA and Ulster University), 2023 - 2024
Awards & Funding
Highly Commended Award (Reactions Exhibition), Craft NI, Belfast, 2024
(Supported by the Arts Council of Northern Ireland)
First Prize (Creative Peninsula Exhibition), Ards Art Centre, Newtownards, 2024
(Supported by Ards and North Down Council)
Material Support Award, Graduate Awards, Design and Craft Council Ireland, 2023
(Supported by the DCCI)
Shortlisted, Graduate Awards, Irish Design Institute, 2023
Invited Artist Award, Royal Ulster Academy, 2023
Highly Commended, Brundle Award, Ulster University, 2022
Sponsorship, Inis Meáin Knitting Company, 2022
Sponsorship, Donegal Yarns, 2022
Highly Commended, Society of Dyers and Colourists, 2018