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Jenny Frean has worked in the fashion and interior textile industries since leaving the RCA in 1972. Though specialising in jacquard weaving, she quickly established herself as a designer of printed textiles, working initially in Europe with brands and couturiers like YSL, Dior, Kenzo and Paloma Picasso. In 1987 Jenny made the decision to switch from Fashion to Interiors and founded her design collection, First Eleven Studio, that was to thrive and flourish for over three decades. The studio collaborated with the world's foremost fabric manufacturers and was renowned for uncompromisingly contemporary design and colour. Among many others, her European clients included Canovas, Pierre Frey, Rubelli and Missoni, Larsen and Clarence House in the USA; and CP&J Baker, Colefax & Fowler, Sanderson and John Lewis in the UK. Over the years, Jenny has taught on BA and MA courses, worked as an external examiner and served on the board of the CNAA. She now continues her design practice as an individual.
Jenny Frean RDI is a textile designer known for her refined use of colour, versatility and unique pattern construction. She talks to Mike Dempsey RDI about her long and fascinating career.
39 mins
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Sussex Downs: fabric and wallpaper
2016
2016
Red Snowdrops: fabric for Crate & Barrel
2018
2018
Cushions: Jenny Frean Design
2019
2019