News / 06 Nov 2025
Textile Design graduate exhibits at Green Grads 2025
BA (Hons) Textile Design
Recent BA (Hons) Textile Design graduate, Kimmy Rose Danby, showcased her innovative work at the Northern Contemporary Craft Fair at Victoria Baths in Manchester for Green Grads UK 2025.
Whilst exhibiting at New Designers, Kimmy was noticed by the Green Grads eco scouts and was subsequently invited to exhibit her work at Green Grads 2025 at the Northern Contemporary Craft Fair, alongside twenty-four other designers and artists with sustainable practices. Green Grads, founded by Barbara Chandler, is a platform for recent UK graduates with planet healing ideas.
"During my time studying Textile Design at Leeds Arts University, I developed a strong sense of environmental awareness and a commitment to more sustainable design practices. As textiles is one of the leading industries contributing to environmental pollution, I wanted my work to reflect a more conscious approach to materials and making."
Kimmy Rose Danby, BA (Hons) Textile Design graduate
During Kimmy’s final year on BA (Hons) Textile Design, she began investigating the materials used within the textiles and interiors industries. Focusing on biophilic design principles, Kimmy researched how cement could be adapted to counteract the negative effects of building and material pollution. This led to the creation of a custom cement mixture that binds to plant roots and moss, helping to purify the air.
Following that project, Kimmy became interested in material innovation, particularly in developing biomaterials and bioplastics that are fully recycled and biodegradable. Through her university projects, she began experimenting with these materials, and since graduating has continued developing this work specifically recycling food waste, such as onion skins, into biomaterials that she uses to create bespoke lampshades as exhibited at Green Grads 2025.
Kimmy’s practice continues to centre around sustainable processes, lifecycle assessment of materials, and exploring how design can have a positive environmental impact.
“Being part of the Green Grads 2025 cohort has been an honour. It’s an inspiring platform that uplifts the next generation of environmentally conscious designers. Exhibiting in Manchester gave me the opportunity to connect with like-minded creatives, engage with the public, and take the first steps in establishing my own sustainable design practice. I’m really looking forward to future opportunities with Green Grads.”
Kimmy Rose Danby, BA (Hons) Textile Design graduate