Grad X

Agnieszka Ryan

Agnieszka is a designer living in county Meath. Throughout her studies at TU Dublin, Agnieszka has developed a multi-disciplinary body of work that was often derived from her personal experiences of childhood, motherhood, and working as a carer in the disability sector. She believes that design can play an integral part in highlighting social and cultural issues, informing the public, as well as proposing creative solutions. She approaches design through connection to the subject matter, people and the environment. Agnieszka is passionate about image-making, in particular, illustration and animation, as well as publication and campaign design. 

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Elara’s Dance

Elara’s Dance is a picture book telling the empowering story of resilience and growth. The narrative of a young dancer growing up in an abusive environment, then embarking on her healing journey, was inspired by my own life. Early on in my childhood I have gained an understanding of impossible to bear fear, frustration, and helplessness. I’ve come to comprehend the profound confusion and perceived unfairness that envelops a child in similar circumstances, making it exceptionally challenging to navigate and exist in such a world.  
     I believe that picture books can serve as a potent resource, providing a child in challenging situations with a refuge, inspiration, and a sense of companionship. Elara’s Dance offers the young reader reassurance and promises a glimpse of life beyond their little world. The captivating watercolour images validate the protagonist’s struggles and feelings, and celebrate her journey of growth and self-acceptance, while also teach to let go of grievances and hurt from the past. 

Weaving Centuries

Weaving Centuries is an animation celebrating the past generations of designers, their creativity, skills and ideas. Telling their story through the beautiful patterns of historical and modern Warner textiles, aims to connect the viewer with the history of RSA Student Design Awards and engage and inspire the new generations of designers. The digitally drawn images replicate the original design of Warner House fabrics, capturing their essence to enrich the narrative. Altering the original artwork and combining it with other images, results in a storyline that gradually reveals itself as viewers examine the pattern.