IMAGE-conscious Bury businesswoman Paola De Giovanni has designs on creating her 'own label' enterprise to showcase her artistic talents.

Paola (39), who is originally from Italy, has already seen her atmospheric and colourful designs adorn a number of textiles and home furnishings produced by the likes of Laura Ashley. But ultimately, her aim is to manufacture and market a range of goods under her MeanMagenta company name.

After gaining her baccalaureate in modern languages and history of art, she moved to the UK in 1996 and later graduated in design studies at Salford University. She then moved to London to work in a Chelsea art gallery before taking a Master degree course in fashion history at the London College of Fashion.

"Learning about the history of fashion opened up an endless and exciting source of information and inspiration," said Paola. "MeanMagenta was launched last year. Being a multi-skilled visual artist/textile designer, I can offer and deliver products and bespoke services where even the smallest detail is taken into account.

"My artwork and photographs are printed digitally on to canvas and these are aimed at art collectors and design-conscious buyers who look for appropriate artwork to complement their homes' interiors."

Paola's designs have already been harnessed by several well-known textile and home furnishing companies involved in the manufacture of cushions, throws and curtains. Personally, she also sells ladies gloves and rings adorned with her own designs.

The businesswoman said: "Part of my creative research originates from large mixed media collages where spellbinding images and colours play an important role.

"Among my sources of inspiration are the colour photographs I take walking in the countryside and details of architecture and paintings from the old tradition."

Looking to the future, she continued: "Ideally, I'd like my artwork printed and retailed all under my own name and label."

Two of Paola's images are currently on view at an exhibition at The Met in Bury. For more information about her business, log on to www.meanmagenta.com