The Colourist online – Showcasing Emerging Talent at Heimtextil 2026

We first encountered Sian Barratt’s work through the SDC International Design Competition, where her research-led approach and sophisticated use of colour earned her the Runner-Up spot in the Northern Heat. Since then, Sian has utilized SDC’s professional network to refine her practice and build industry confidence. 

A key aim of our bursary scheme is to provide emerging practitioners with global visibility. We are proud to see 2026 recipient Sian Barratt selected to exhibit at Heimtextil, the world’s premier event for interior textiles and trend forecasting. Her journey from student competitor to international exhibitor exemplifies the impact of targeted industry support. 

Here’s what Sian had to say about her experience:  

With the support of the Society of Dyers and Colourists Bursary scheme, I was able to showcase my work at Heimtextil 2026.  

As the leading global event for interior textiles, interior design and trends, exhibiting at Heimtextil allowed me to position my practice within an international industry context, and so being selected by Trendease to exhibit in the New Talent Area was a great honour.  

During the event, I engaged in valuable conversations with manufacturers, colour specialists, trend forecasters and material innovators, which encouraged me to reflect on how my work is perceived and communicated within industry.  

Alongside exploring potential collaborations, I gained further insight into the business side of design, including how creative work is positioned, sold and aligned with a clear target market.  

Heimtextil also presented 26/27 trends, alongside talks and guided tours, which deepened my understanding of colour as a research-led practice, framed through sustainability, materiality and emotion rather than surface aesthetics alone.  

This experience has influenced my approach to colour decision-making, enabling me to make more informed and responsible choices for my future design projects.  

Overall, exhibiting at Heimtextil has had a lasting influence on my practice, helping me to better articulate the value of my work to manufacturers, brands and commissioners, and strengthening my confidence and position within the textiles and colouration industry.    

We’re proud to support students and emerging practitioners like Sian as they develop their practice and take their first steps into the global textiles and colour community. Opportunities such as Heimtextil play an important role in building confidence, visibility and industry understanding.