In the ever-evolving realm of design, the synergy between industry leaders and academic institutions is paramount. One exemplary collaboration that embodies this spirit is the Glen Raven and VCU’s Department Fashion Design + Merchandising Design Competition: Sunbrella Boat Bag.
This introductory endeavor is a competition which not only serves as a platform for budding designers to showcase their talents but also as a testament to the power of industry-academic partnerships in fostering creativity and pushing the boundaries of conventional design.
Sunbrella® (a division within Glen Raven), a global leader in performance fabrics and innovative materials which offers durability, UV resistance, and a wide array of design possibilities joined forces with the Dept to launch a unique design competition centered around boat bags. Students were challenged to consider not only the aesthetic appeal of their designs but also the functionality and eco-conscious aspects of their creations
The challenge was clear – to seamlessly blend functionality, sustainability, and style in the creation of a cutting-edge boat bag. This competition sought to provide students with a real-world design challenge, bridging the gap between academic theory and practical application.
While all participants demonstrated commendable efforts, a select few designs stood out for their exceptional ingenuity and execution. Design students Rose Kula McGough and Ramsey Buskey presented their work to a panel, comprising both Glen Raven professionals (Tracy Greene, Esther Chang, Allen Gant lll) and VCU faculty (Cate Latham and Hawa Stwodah) who evaluated the designs based on criteria such as innovation, functionality, sustainability, and market appeal.