Background:
In the previous project, Investigate, I explored new methods of making, while reflecting on similar themes from the previous project.
- The method of working that I used was to make, paint and unmake. What I liked about this was that you could see the process, time and evolution of the pieces. You can also begin to envision what the object looks like in 3D, due to the drag lines across the ripples of the fabrics. I’M NOT SURE THAT I WANT TO USE THIS SPECIFIC METHOD IN THE NEXT PROJECT… but….
- I like the contradiction of the abstract painting method and the restrictive elements together (how will I continue this?)
- Unilaterally, the tutors have agreed that video is a strong way to document my work, I really enjoyed the performative elements of the painting videos, and this is something that I would like to take into the next project– possibly creating a garment that would instigate a sort of performance (kinetic elements?)
- I am still very interested in themes of control (over what is natural/over our own bodies (related more to women)) and restriction
- I also enjoyed experimenting with color and I think that I can communicate the themes I am interested in, in more interesting ways by using a completely different color palette (meaning not red and black, as per usual with me).
I was also interested in craft and education but I have to put those on the back burner because I already have enough to think about.
Something else successful was how I documented and catalogued the torn apart corset on one table. This is something I’ll keep in mind for the future.
Statement of Intent
- What is the concept/idea behind your proposed project? What is unique about it?
- I think I want to make garments that instigate a performance or action. The actions could be unique and very telling (I’m thinking of perhaps making all of the fastenings reveal “ugly” parts of the body….?). I want to think of a narrative element for the garment.
- I’m interested in taking these themes (control and restriction) and making garments that have a lot of “pretty” elements in them for a strong contrast (like the painting and restricted elements).
- What are the aims and objectives of your project?
- Make a garment which lends itself to performance or actions
- Be meticulous with color choices
- What research will you undertake? How does this research relate to your developing practice?
- Research performative garments/fashion collections/designers
- Research on the performance of gender
- Research color palettes and fabrics
- How will your experimentation from the previous project become a resolved body of work?
- I think I’ve done as much as I want to with the painting method, and I want to develop that further.
- What will the final outcome/s be?
- a full “look”
Samantha's RCA Process 
I’m 95 years old and it took me forever to figure out to leave a comment… hahaha I am stupid. Anyway! I really love the idea of fastenings revealing “ugly” parts… reminds me of when people unbutton their pants after eating a lot (gluttony). It would be interesting I think to talk to people about their “ugly” parts and their relationship w those parts
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I think getting additional feedback on what people feel is “ugly” is a really good point. Sometimes It’s so easy to overlook things when we focus too much on ourselves (@me lol). Thanks for the feedback!
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Hey Sam, for me I’m curious with terms you used such as ugly and pretty which seem to be terms you specifically feel something about. Can you elaborate it more? Since I also found it subjective. How about also some research onto a subject such as aesthetics?
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This is a very good point! I’ll try to clarify what exactly I mean with these words…
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For some reason I kept thinking about the artist Jenny Saville while reading this – have a look at her. I really like your exploration of painting/deconstruction/reconstruction, and the constriction/release in relation to the corset: especially in relation to women’s condition. In terms of colour, I’d maybe look into the history/significance of each colour as well.
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I just checked out Jenny Saville’s work and I am in love !! Thank you for the suggestion!
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I find the relation between fashion and performance you’re evidencing really interesting, never really thought about it. I like your general ideas for the project too, would love to see a couple moodboards or something with pictures that evoke “pretty” and “ugly” to you!
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Mood boards are a good idea… it would definitely be hard to solidify what exactly “pretty” and “ugly” are on a wide scope… thinking of making a google form. Thanks for the feedback!
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Karoline Vitto might be worth looking at if you are still hoping to accentuate the “ugly” parts of the human body.
https://www.dezeen.com/2019/08/05/karoline-vitto-the-body-as-material-fashion-collection/
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ah, I love her work! thank you!!!
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Hi sam!
I really love your video, that is super amazing!
Speaking of the “ugly” parts of the body, I would like to suggest to analysis the whole body first: Which parts are “beautiful” for you and why, then which parts are “ugly” ?
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this is a good point… thank you! 🙂
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Very interesting subject. You can check Umberto Eco: History of Beauty & On Ugliness (really easy to read even though I found some chapters oversimplified). Maybe I am pointing out an obvious reference on performative garments: Rebecca Horn?
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I will definitely check out that book, looks very interesting. Thank you!
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