Meet our Art and Design student Elizabeth McGarrigle who studied the Level 3 UAL Diploma in Art and Design at NWRC.
Now Elizabeth has started her own business in clothing and gifts, called Mindboggles Apparel and Gifts with support from the Enterprise agency in Strabane.
She said: “Since leaving college my small business is growing and I couldn’t be happier.
“I have also designed a brand of clothing specifically highlighting positivity and wellness surrounding mental health. These garments showcase positive quotes. I was so honoured and privileged for Fabu-D aka Black Paddy to wear one of my personally designed hoodies last week. All my designs can be found on my MindBoggles business pages on Instagram and Facebook. “
Name
Elizabeth McGarrigle
Age
42.
Course studied?
UAL Level 3 Foundation Diploma in Art and Design - majoring in textiles.
Why did you choose to study Art?
I have always had a passion for Art, it's my happy place.
Tell us a bit more about your course?
The course is intense and was split into 3 artistic areas. Textiles, Fine Art, and Graphic Design. The course is very enjoyable, and in the first semester from September to December you do a mixture of mini projects, this helps the tutors understand the best major topic suited for your style of Art. So, I was best suited for Textile Art. The tutors are 100% supportive and do their absolute best to support every student within the department. The department is like a mini-Family.
What have you enjoyed most about your time at College?
Of all the years I've studied to better myself this year has by far been the best, especially for my Mental health. I have laughed and smiled every day this year.
What did you do afterwards? Tell me a bit more about your business.
With the help and fabulous support from the staff in Art, I plucked up the courage to reach out to the Enterprise agency in Strabane. I started my journey to become self-employed and they have helped me with grants and equipment to start my own gift and clothing business called MindBoggles Apparel and Gifts. Since leaving college my small business is growing and I couldn’t be happier.
I have also designed a brand of clothing specifically highlighting positivity and wellness surrounding mental health. These garments showcase positive quotes. I feel this is needed especially in today's economy. All my designs can be found on my MindBoggles business pages on Instagram and Facebook.
I was so honoured and privileged for Fabu-D aka Black Paddy to wear one of my personally designed hoodies last week.
Would you recommend this course to other students?
Yes absolutely, it may have taken me 24 years and years of studying different subjects to get the Essential enrolment criteria to get here and finally do Art. But there are always avenues within the NWRC, to help you get to where your heart feels content.
Perseverance, dedication, and hard work are all it takes to reach that final goal.
Elizabeth pictured with Black Paddy.
Elizabeth pictured at the Best in FE Awards.
