Creativity Takes Flight as Applied Arts Students Wow with ‘Insect Play’ Costumes
HNC Applied Arts students at City of Glasgow College have once again impressed with their imaginative and eye-catching performance costumes, inspired by Insect Play by Karel Čapek.
This year’s project challenged students to create wearable sculptures that bring the world of insects to life, using everything from recycled fabrics and plastics to unconventional and found materials. Techniques such as appliqué, pleating and folding were used to transform these elements into bold, creative designs.
The annual showcase is a highlight of the course and was once again supported by the Incorporation of Bonnetmakers and Dyers of Glasgow, who generously donated three top prizes. Judging was carried out by artist Despoina Isaia, Incorporation representative Sheenah Chrichton, and our Associate Dean of Art, Craft and Design, Eddie Carr.
Congratulations to this year’s winners:
- 1st Prize – Rebekah Hunter, for her stunning butterfly costume
- 2nd Prize – Luke Kerr, with a dramatic moth design
- 3rd Prize – Sami Howie, for a powerful ant-inspired piece
- Highly Commended – Sarah Graham, also for her interpretation of an ant
Winner Rebekah reflected: “I am absolutely blown away to have won this competition. I made the costume thinking that it was just an art project so to have won this competition against some other stunning & skilled pieces is absolutely crazy to me, it has given me such a boost. Thank you and well done to all the other entries.”
Textiles lecturer Susan Bryson praised the students for their creative thinking and sustainable approach: “This year's work shows how creativity and sustainability can go hand in hand. Our students have pushed boundaries, turning discarded materials into powerful, wearable art. It's been a joy to see them grow and succeed.”
The costumes were beautifully photographed by HND Photography students, who captured each piece with real flair and professionalism. This project continues to showcase the incredible creativity, collaboration, and talent within our college—and reflects our commitment to sustainability in the arts.