Joe Gurr
Textile Design BA Hons
Leeds Arts University
Graduates: 2026
Specialisms: Textiles - Mixed Media / Sustainable Fashion/Textiles / Textile Innovation/Textile Art
My location: Leeds, United Kingdom
Joe Gurr
First Name: Joe
Last Name: Gurr
University / College: Leeds Arts University
Course / Program: Textile Design BA Hons
Graduates: 2026
Specialisms: Textiles - Mixed Media / Sustainable Fashion/Textiles / Textile Innovation/Textile Art
My Location: Leeds, United Kingdom
About
I am a textile designer with a strong interest in material innovation, sustainability and ethical design. My work focuses on exploring alternative materials and processes, particularly biomaterials such as Malai, as a way to challenge traditional approaches to leather and synthetic textiles.I take a material led approach to design, working through experimentation with processes such as laser cutting, reconstruction and surface development. A key part of my practice is rethinking waste, using offcuts and discarded elements to create new material outcomes and extend the lifecycle of materials.I am interested in how sustainable design can exist within contemporary fashion and textiles, combining responsible material choices with strong visual and surface led outcomes.
Coconut to Concept
This project explores Malai, a biomaterial made from coconut water waste, as a sustainable alternative to leather. Using a material led approach, I experimented with laser cutting, etching and reconstruction to develop textile and fashion outcomes. The process extended beyond the material itself, reusing offcuts and discarded elements to create new compositions and surface designs. By transforming waste into design, the project embraces circular principles while highlighting the potential of Malai as both a functional and aesthetic material for contemporary fashion and accessories.
Competitions
