Two North Kent College students had their design skills recognised when their t-shirts were donned by many at a recent London music festival.

Lewis Bayliss and Beth Williams, who study Graphic Design and Illustration, had their designs selected by creative organisation The Soulstice Collective as the official t-shirt for their Soulstice Festival at the beginning of the month.

Lewis, who designed the white long-sleeved t-shirt, explained how a simple question provided help him create his design: “I took inspiration from last year’s design so I made my own around community – “what does community mean to you?” because everyone has their own view and beliefs about a community. As everyone is from different backgrounds, community may mean something different to another person.

“I like the work of Keith Haring so his work also shaped mine, he’s got a unique design that has a love and community feel. I really enjoyed making this and I’m thankful for all the people who helped guide it towards the final product.”

Beth, who designed the navy short-sleeved t-shirt, revealed music was a big inspiration for her design: “I chose to reflect the theme of community through the use of 70s and 80s music as different music styles brought people together who, without it, wouldn’t necessarily have met or known each other, and I find that beautiful.

“My inspiration for my work was through music. People bonded and relationships flourished which is reflected through Soulstice’s values.”

The Soulstice Collective is a creative organisation with the simple aim of “using the arts and events for good.” This year they partnered with North Kent College to launch their new arm, Soulstice Risers, empowering next generation creatives to gain experience and enjoy the arts.

North Kent College students were given a clear brief and information on Soulstice’s values to inspire their designs of the t-shirt. More than 40 of the t-shirts were pre-ordered prior to the Soulstice Festival, with many more bought on the day.

The t-shirts are still available to buy on the apparel section of the Soulstice Collective website.

The winning designers also received a prize of £200, 50% of which will be used for something to support their work in art and design.

The Soulstice Collective will be back at North Kent College on Monday 18 September to host a creative workshop with students.

North Kent College offers a variety of courses covering Graphic Design and Illustration courses, Creative Digital Design and Fashion and Photography.

To find our more visit the subject list page of the North Kent College website or get in touch by using the details on the Contact Us page of the website.