Bodies of Water

fashion design avant garde water philosophical plastic experimentation

Concept

A reflection is a way for one to see themselves from a different perspective and to see their identity. However, our minds produce virtual images of the world as a result of the four idols of the mind. I want to free myself from these idols so that a reflection transforms into a real image. So that turbulent water becomes still. Therefore, I can see the world as what it truly is, not what I think it is.

Research

My academic research for this project consisted of studying the four idols of the mind theory by Francis Bacon. The idols of the mind are what manipulate knowledge when it enters the mind, whether it happens as a result of one's personal experience or language barriers. In this collection, I explore the transformation of water from turbulent to still.

In addition to a couple of books that explain the different kinds of stiches in knitting and crochet. Knitting was the technique I wanted to explore in this collection.

Case Studies

Alana Clifton-Cunningham - Second Skin

Alana explores unconventional knitting techniques. Focuses on deconstructing the body and introducing new shapes.

Alana Clifton-Cunningham - Second Glance

This piece challenges the traditional knitting techniques and examines the notion of illusion.

Alana Clifton-Cunningham - Topographical Complexities

This work responds to the destruction of nature and the ecological crisis. Specifically, the bleaching of coral reefs. Many fish depend on coral reefs to exist.

Iris Van Herpen - The Water Dress

Iris has always been fascinated by water, and in this dress, she explores recreating something fluid using a hard material.

Experiments

I experimented mainly with plastic because it is the best option to create water. I started by looking at many images of water in many states so I could see how to embody it. I used transparent PVC as a thread and knitted it.

I also added different thickness of threads with it. The thicker the thread, the clearer the color, and therefore the image, becomes.