2015 Awardee: Rhys McKenna

"The Dewar awards sent me on a great learning experience and I am extremely grateful."

Biography

Rhys McKenna is an exceptional talent in the field of fashion, whose enthusiasm and dedication has earned him exceptional opportunities to work internationally. He has gathered inspiration in Edinburgh, New York and Beijing, with projects and internships for major names such as Michael Kors, MacKintosh and H&M.

Born in Stirling, Scotland, Rhys developed a passion for fashion design from an early age.  Whilst Head Boy at Stirling High School he reinvented the house identities as a project, and also cites his 15 years of participation in Tae Kwon Do as an influence on his work.

In 2012, Rhys began studying fashion at the University of Edinburgh. Throughout his studies, he supported himself financially by selling paintings, working in Slaters Menswear and providing academic tuition. This strong work ethic is something that he also applies to his practice and development as a fashion designer.

Rhys specialises in menswear. His ambition is to pursue a career in outerwear and tailoring, with postgraduate studies in Menswear Design and Design Informatics.

How the Award Helped

Rhys’ Dewar Arts Award enabled him to undertake an internship in New York with the prestigious fashion company, Rochambeau.

"The Dewar awards sent me on a great learning experience and I am extremely grateful."