Alumni and Art and Design student, Rheanna Sorby, returned to Ashton Sixth Form College to speak to current students about her experience within the art industry. Rheanna currently owns her own printing company, Pig & Fig, specialising in kitchen and home. 

In 2013, Rheanna completed her studies in Textiles, Biology, Mathematics and Psychology. She then went on to study Textiles with Surface Design at the University of Huddersfield. Before studying A-Levels, Rheanna began her secondary education at Hyde Community College.

Following her degree, Rheanna completed internships, volunteered as a Textile and Upcycling Specialist for Oxfam, worked as a Blogger Programme Manager and also as a Freelance Designer. Gaining a wealth of experience through internships, voluntary work and employment allowed Rheanna to talk to current students about what she has learned. From portfolio tips to gaining work experience to doing things a little differently, the students took away an abundnace of advice that will be invaluable to their progression.

Rheanna also spoke about the complexity of builiding her own company from the ground up and how a simple design sketch and a lot of hard work has led to founding her own company this year. 

During her visit, Rheanna brought along the original sketch books that inspired the current print designs she now has on sale in her online shop. Both Textiles and Graphics students were able to explore the process from idea to design to creation. Alumni visits such as this, give students the opportunity to ask quesitons and get advice from somebody who, just 4 years ago, was in their shoes. 

For more Pig & Fig designs click here.

To find out more about Art and Design courses at Ashton Sixth Form college click here.