The University Of The Arts London Highlights Cultural Identity And Heritage In Its Latest Graduate Showcase Feature
LONDON – January 2026 – University of the Arts London (UAL) has announced the latest feature in its ongoing #ShowcaseRoots series, spotlighting the work of BA (Hons) Textile Design graduate Eva Buryakovsky from Chelsea College of Arts.
Titled ‘Reconnecting...’, the project represents a significant exploration of personal identity, merging Eastern and Western European mythology to reflect on the designer’s evolving relationship with her Russian heritage while living and studying in the United Kingdom.
The #ShowcaseRoots series is a dedicated initiative by UAL to highlight graduate projects that delve into complex themes of heritage, home, identity, and culture.
Buryakovsky’s work exemplifies the high calibre of research-led design encouraged by the university.
Through an in-depth examination of craft practices and textile traditions, the project weaves together medieval artefacts with references ranging from the late 19th century to contemporary visual culture.
The final outcome of the project is a conceptual costume that merges two autobiographical female characters into a single entity.
Using the silhouette of a 15th-century Russian dress as a foundational structure, the piece layers medieval creatures and symbols from both Eastern and Western Europe.
This synthesis highlights shared visual languages across different cultures and timelines, offering a nuanced perspective on the migrant experience and cultural integration.
This always-on digital space allows recent graduates to share their work with the world, facilitating connections with industry leaders and helping to shape the future of the creative sector.
The platform features thousands of projects across disciplines including fashion, design, performance, and photography, addressing the pressing challenges and cultural dialogues of today.
The spotlight on Buryakovsky’s ‘Reconnecting...’ underscores the university's commitment to fostering work that is not only aesthetically innovative but also deeply rooted in cultural research and personal narrative.
About University of the Arts London (UAL)
University of the Arts London (UAL) is a world-ranked university for art and design.
It offers an extensive range of courses in art, design, fashion, communication, and performing arts.
UAL Showcase is the university's global platform for showcasing the work of its graduating students, designed to connect fresh talent with the creative industries.
The platform serves as a space for innovation, where graduates address contemporary global challenges through their creative practice. For more information, visit ualshowcase.arts.ac.uk.
