Future Focus: New Designers

Keeping on top of the flurry of grad shows in the summer months is a tough gig. Don’t fret, New Designers is here to come to the rescue. Over its two-week programme, the London show presents work by the cream of the crop of UK grads, showcasing students from more than 200 creative courses who come together to exhibit never-before-seen work to design fans, trends analysts, journalists and industry professionals looking to hire or commission the next big thing. Thomas Heatherwick, Ella Doran and Matthew Williamson are all alumni, giving you an indication of the level of talent there to discover at the show.

New Designers is a place where careers are launched, acting as a vital bridge between design education and professional design success. Split into two halves, Week 1 takes in textiles, fashion, costume design, jewellery, glass, ceramics and contemporary design crafts, whereas Week 2 includes product, furniture, industrial, automotive, interior design, graphic design, animation, illustration, gaming and motion arts.

Alongside these soon-to-be stars from the whole breadth of the country, New Designers also showcases 100 recently established design businesses and their products as part of programme One Year In. Curated by jewellery designer and Luna & Curious founder Rheanna Lingham, the design entrepreneurs are picked for the originality of their thinking, the quality of their work and the viability of their business. There were a record-breaking number of applications received during the open call this year, meaning the 2018 showcase is set to be one of the best yet.

To discover the very best of the next generation of design talent, scoop up tickets for New Designers here.