Oxford University, Saïd Business School Unveils New Merchandise with Niamh Nowlan’s Special Addition Bespoke Print
On the 1st of May, the Oxford Saïd Business School proudly unveiled their new merchandise range featuring a bespoke print design, made by myself. Inspired by the esteemed Oxford University logo, this print isn't just about aesthetics; it’s about capturing the iconic heritage whilst creating a modern print to stand the test of time. The collaboration demonstrates the Oxford Saïd Business School’s unwavering commitment to embracing individual creativity.
The journey began in the spring, 2023 when the Oxford Saïd Business School teamed up with the Jimmy Choo Academy to launch a competition to design their new uniforms and merchandise. With two months to create their employees’ new uniforms and merchandise design ideas I was busy. This was a really fun project for me as I have grown up in Oxfordshire, so this project had a special significance for me, giving the project with an extra layer of meaning to be working with Oxford University. At the end of the two months designing the candidates were asked to visit the Oxford Saïd Business School for a day at the school to announce the winner. This is where I won the award for my print design for their new merchandise range.
The journey of this bespoke print design began with a vision to encapsulate the iconic Oxford University with a fresh vision, creating a print that stands the test of time. Playing around with the logo by layering in photoshop I saw something interesting developing. I took this and started painting it out repeatedly in the studio. After photographing my development and going back to the CAD I further established the print as we saw it launch on Wednesday.
The special addition print is made with the classic Oxford University font and iconic navy and white colouring. This was important for me to encapsulate the iconic nature of the historical and cultural Oxford University but also create something that has an air of modernity and the element of luxury design. I think this has really been captured here.
A big thank you to the Oxford Saïd Business School for this opportunity. It is exciting to know that this bespoke print will find its way into the hands of students, alumni, and supporters alike, carrying a legacy of history and design. Growing up in Oxfordshire to be leaving my print there is something I would of never imagined happening.
