We’re delighted to congratulate Jaya Steele, a student on the Level 3 Extended Diploma in Creative Practice – Art & Design Communication at Kendal College, who received the Brewery Arts Award at the College’s End of Year Exhibition.
Invited as a guest judge for this year’s End of Year Exhibition, Helena McGregor, Brewery Arts’ Visual Arts Learning & Engagement Officer, presented the Award to Jaya in recognition of her outstanding creativity and craftsmanship.
Inspired by the delicate patterns and natural symmetry of moth and insect wings, Jaya’s beautifully crafted textile piece combines lace, satin, beads and pearls to capture their fragile beauty in a soft, neutral palette. Drawing on the way insects have been reinterpreted in fashion, the work transforms these intricate natural forms into a contemporary textile design. Through techniques including Suffolk puffs, fabric draping and lace cut-outs, Jaya explores the balance between intricate detail and simplicity, creating a piece that celebrates the beauty of the natural world.
Jaya’s closing reflection in her artist statement reflects her creative ambition: “Through this work, I hope viewers notice and appreciate fine details and simplicity, while feeling inspired to experiment with new textile techniques, just as I did throughout this project.”
As part of the award, Jaya’s work has been selected for inclusion in the Young Artist Open Exhibition 2026 at Brewery Arts, providing another opportunity to experience this exceptional piece alongside work by other local emerging artists.
The Young Artist Open Exhibition 2026 runs from 31 July to 31 October, open Tuesday to Saturday, 11am–5pm, with free admission.
To plan your visit and find out more about our exhibitions, head to the Exhibitions page here.
