FINAL PROJECT STATEMENT

I wanted to reflect on this project in a manner which was simultaneously structured and free-flowing. For me, this involved two notions in particular; contemporary theory and technical experimentation. Looking back at the project through those two lenses provided me with the structure necessary to critique my process technically, but the ideas and thoughts associated with that process allowed for a more emotive reflection.

One core element of this project was the development of my technical skills through a considered and analytical process. This was the structured journey, based on critical research and rigorous development, iteration and refinement. At the same time, the contemporary design ethic and theory associated with that technical process keenly resonated with me in an emotional context. This project was as much a journey through my own motivation and purpose as it was an exploration and development of my design work.

Utilize the contemporary

Modular clothing, circular economy and zero waste were the three contemporary design approaches that drove this project from a conceptual perspective. Each approach shares a common thread – the role of the modern designer in their wider world. I wanted my design process to connect with and resolve issues that are faced at a social and community level, instead of existing purely as fashion. As such, I tried to design with those issues in mind. I wanted a garment that was sustainable in material and process, that was functionally flexible and maximized the end-user’s investment, and that could be continually reincarnated into something new.

Experiment and question: embracing risk

The design intentions sound both aspiration and somewhat ambitious in retrospect, and the actual design process was, in some respects, difficult as a result. I had to learn how to use multiple processes that were very new to me, the vinyl cutter and the digital embroidery machine for example. I struggled at times with understanding the various computer programs and taking design aspects that were originally two dimensional into the three dimensional world, but found that by overcoming these particular challenges I learnt a lot more as a result. I experimented with 3D printing a zip from an open source file from the website thingyverse, which was a very challenging and enlightening experience as I was able to see what would be possible had I the time to flesh out a zipper design for clothing.

Ultimately, the risk associated with taking on technical challenges was rewarding. While the final product may not have been as polished as I initially desired, I believe the risks that I took from a technical standpoint showed that my ethical and theoretical motivations were achievable. This paper has helped me clarify and refine some of the ideas I was thinking of exploring in my final year of my university degree, and I am excited to get back to the fab lab next year to continue the exploration of the ideas that this paper has introduced me to.