A true visionary, Helen’s work has questioned, challenged and inspired for over three decades and I am absolutely delighted that she is to receive this fitting recognition of her outstanding contribution to design and society. As Professor of Fashion and Science at London College of Fashion, Helen’s collaborative, forward-thinking and interdisciplinary way of working has led to pioneering work. She has successfully brought together the worlds of art and science, producing hybrid projects and products that have broken new and award-winning ground. Helen consistently challenges convention, bringing fresh insight and communicating imaginatively to help people think differently and improve lives.
The title ‘Royal Designer for Industry’ (RDI) was introduced by the RSA in 1936 to honour designers of excellence and promote the important contribution of design in manufacturing and industry.
RSA Chief Executive Matthew Taylor said: “The world’s greatest designers consistently challenge convention, discover new insights, and improve people’s lives. These five outstanding practitioners from different disciplines all share an inventive and unshakable commitment to educate, inform and enrich the public realm through design.”
Helen said: “It has been an absolute joy to find that my work has been recognised by the Royal Society of Arts and all that it stands for, not just for me, but for everyone who follows their intuition, beyond trend and towards the betterment of us all.”
Helen is an inspiration to the staff and students at the University of the Arts London and I have no doubt that she will continue to work tirelessly towards creating a better world. It is a privilege to work with her and we are immensely proud that she is to be honoured with this prestigious award.
My other blog posts which mention Helen…
