Moray-based digital media research institute, Distance Lab, is to officially launch its first commercial spin-out company at their Open Studio event on 10 June, at Horizon Scotland in Forres.
Lost Values Limited, founded and directed by fashion designer Elena Corchero, combines technology and traditional craft techniques to recapture values that have been lost over time. Her products include fashion garments, handmade gifts and keepsakes.
"As we move faster and technology becomes part of our everyday existence, remembering our human side becomes a great source of inspiration", explains Ms Corchero. "Our unique products bridge the distance between traditional craft techniques and materials and modern technology".
Stimulating the interest of females in science and technology is key to many Lost Values products, especially the range of solar-powered fashion accessories, and educational science and electronic craft kits for children.
Ms Corchero has been working as a Senior Research Associate at Distance Lab for the last 2 years, where she has developed her product portfolio. Distance Lab was set up in 2007, by Highlands and Islands Enterprise, to stimulate and grow a thriving technology research base in the region and contribute to economic development. "Starting high-growth businesses in the region is a key strategic aim of Distance Lab and HIE - and we are delighted to be celebrating our first start-up", stated Chris Moule, the Lab's Commercial Director, "We have been working hard with Elena to support her with her ambitions, raise her profile internationally and equip her with the business skills to build a sustainable successful venture".
Commenting on her time at Distance Lab, Ms Corchero said, "Distance Lab has provided me with the knowledge, expertise and confidence to start my own company. The inspiration I get from collaborating and sharing ideas with other researchers in such a unique environment is the driving force behind Lost Values. I hope to continue to work with them and other similar creative people in the future to grow the business".
Lost Values products that will be on sale at the Open Studio event include a range of kids' craft kits that combine simple electronics with textiles, and handmade his-and-her badges, called U&V, that change colour in the sun to highlight the problems of climate change.
Distance Lab's Open Studio, on Wednesday 10 June, titled Social TechStyles, is focusing on social computing and smart textiles, to demonstrate how the Lab is developing softer technology to aid various interactions over a distance. Special guest speaker for the event, Karrie Karahalios, an assistant professor from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, will be giving a talk entitled Visualising Voice, discussing interactions people undertake in networked, electronic spaces.