MEET THE DESIGNER - NATALLIA KULIKOUSKAYA

“I knew I wanted to be a designer ever since the age of 11 and I never had a plan B.”

- Natallia Kulikouskay

How did your love of design begin?

Since a young age, I always had a great interest in Art. Starting from 11 years old I attended the special Art School in my hometown in Belarus.

My very first teacher, who introduced me to the world of Art &  Design, was a young Belarusian artist Iryna Baslyk. She was fresh out of University and very enthusiastic. The way she looked, acted and spoke to us was so different from the people I had met before and in my childhood imagination she was like a Mary Poppins for me - I was fascinated by her.

At the age of 12, I already began making clothes (sewing and knitting). At first for myself, but very soon for my family and friends and in my student years this was already my main source of income.

What was your career path out of university?

After graduating from the Vitebsk State University of Technology I worked at the Vitteks textile factory as a Textile Arts Designer developing new structures and patterns of fabrics and tapestries. I worked with some prominent artists and designers and gained valuable experience in design. 

My next career move took me to Ireland where I was fortunate to work for the largest manufacturer of traditional Irish sweaters – “Aran Crafts of Ireland” – as a Knitwear Designer developing fine quality fashionable Irish knitwear for 8 years.  It was a fantastic time during which I met many incredible people and learned about the truly unique Irish Aran Patterns and techniques which are not simply beautiful but are symbolic representations of certain traditions and values.  My designs have appeared in widely-published Irish newspapers and fashion magazines. My bespoke couture gowns were also featured at Showcase of Ireland fashion shows. 

I am especially proud that one of my knitted Celtic Aran Wedding Dress was chosen by Irish Textile Heritage Author Vawn Corrigan for publication in her book “Irish Aran History, Tradition, Fashion” as a representation of Irish heritage.

How did you meet the founders of Born of Nomad?

I recently moved to Switzerland and was open to new career opportunities. I connected with and soon meet the founders of “Born of Noman”, who were also looking for an experienced knitwear designer. As a result of our collaboration, the current “Be Nomad” collection was created.

We are now developing the concept for the next collection with a strong focus on ecological, sustainable and environmentally friendly designs.

What makes working with Born of Nomad interesting for you? 

I always have been inspired by Nature, folk culture, exotic countries and attracted to natural materials and traditional crafts. I found the brand concept of sourcing the Mongolian cashmere directly from the Nomads, who are working with their animals to create this valuable fiber, very appealing.

I was glad to have met people with a common vision, who love creating natural, sustainable, products – “Made Slow” with lasting value, produced directly in the country where the fiber is sourced - in Mongolia. I am appreciative of the Nomads”' efforts that produce high-quality cashmere for our world and glad to support their traditional way of life.

I hope that together we will create products that will bear positive energy, pleasure, and comfort to people who wear them.