This month our spotlight is on textile designer Sara Ladds. She will give a short presentation on her work during the 6 pm tour's stop at Kreatelier, and tour-goers will be able to ask questions and browse the fabric and wallpaper showroom. You can also visit Kreatelier on your own anytime between 6 and 8 pm on April 18 Gallery Night.
Q: You were trained at RISD as a graphic designer. What's the difference for you between designing on paper vs. fabric?
A: As a graphic designer, one uses information to create a design with a specific message, such as a poster or a book cover. There are choices in type, image, and color which are arranged on a given dimension to inform. The similarities between graphic design and fabric design are the designing of similar elements such as pattern, color, and size/dimension on a flat, two-dimensional plane. But fabric is a moving, pliable medium that takes into consideration light, shape, function, style, trends, taste, etc. It has a longer presence where graphic design has a short window of purpose. And when it comes to interior fabrics, the fabric is part of a complex array of other elements such as rugs, artwork, furniture, etc. and they all need to "talk" to one another as a unified group. If it's done correctly.
Q: Art and design are often used interchangeably. Is there a distinction?
A: I am of the opinion that yes, there is a distinction. Art is an expression of the soul. It comes from a place of having something to say and the artist completely drives what is said and how it's conveyed. Design has a purpose. To communicate and inform (graphic design), to be functional (industrial/furniture design), to live in society (fashion, architecture design), and so on. There are many designers who are artists and artists who are designers in both life and work. The two principles can intertwine and there are a few who have mastered it brilliantly. But for me, there is a distinction in the "why" something is created which separates art from design.
Q: Do you have a favorite palette? A favorite design or one that you're most proud of?
A: I love color! It's the number one driving force in how I design. I have always gravitated towards the warmer hues - red, orange, pink - but my new collection is with a lot of blues and greens. Whatever the color, I tend to go for a lot of saturation. I would say one of my favorite patterns is the "Peony" pattern. It's graphic and soft in style, bold, and colorful.
More about Sara Ladds Design:
Sara Ladds Design was launched in early 2015 and is based in Providence, Rhode Island. The collections combine a particular style of bold pattern and vibrant color with attention to proportion and balance. Sara Ladds Design uses eco-friendly printing methods, including water-based pigment ink, regional production and sustainably sourced materials and all fabrics are produced in the USA.
More about Sara Ladds:
Sara Ladds grew up in New York City where fashion, art, architecture, and culture influenced her sense of style and design. After graduating from Rhode Island School of Design, Sara spent many years as an award-winning graphic designer. She was owner of Bachleitner Design and in 2005 she became the art director at Brown University. In 2012 she moved out of Providence to the beautiful coastal town of Little Compton where she began to rethink her life’s work and decided to fulfill a long-time dream of being a textile designer. Thus Sara Ladds Design was born and one need not look far to see how Sara’s years as a graphic designer has strongly influenced her textiles. Her attention to detail and color are complemented by bold, graphic patterns and her work offers a strong and refreshing addition to the world of residential textiles.