Beyond Chrysalis
Year: 2008
Event: World of WearableArt Avant Garde Section Finalist/ Fashion Fantasia
Award: Acquisitive Award, Fashion Fantasia, Tasmania
Inspiration:
Beyond Chrysalis began with the concept of emerging from the chrysalis - of wanting to capture that moment of glorious beauty emerging from the dull, functional chrysalis. This process is more usually associated with beautiful butterflies, rather than moths. The dark, skeletal elements of ‘Beyond Chrysalis’ are the antithesis of the bright and beautiful butterfly, but, nonetheless, create a different kind of beauty. This moth emerges from the chrysalis to flaunt a beauty to rival that of the butterfly.
Materials & Techniques:
Organza, gel medium, mica paint, wire, fishing line, spray paint, free-motion embroidery, hand beading, sequins, beads, and crystals
More Information:
The work was based on my interest in moths and butterflies, and began from the simple sketch of a wing which then developed into an entire creature. The skirt was constructed of 4 large wings, created from organza painted with gel medium. Powdered mica paints were applied to add metallic colouring, wiring stitched on to wing edges; fabric fragments included, glass crystals and sequins hand-sewn on to further embellish. The four wings were secured onto a black tulle skirt by way of a bustle-type structure. Four smaller wings were used for the corset centrepiece, the corset itself being made from black wet-look stretch vinyl. The underskirt, which was made from two shades of purple shot organza, was finished with fishing line edges and featured a black tulle fishtail over a mauve lining. A wing the same size as those of the skirt was transformed into the headpiece and supported with tulle.
Bonus Information:
Beyond Chrysalis was created for the Avant Garde section of the World of Wearable Art. It was my very first entry, and was accepted, much to my delight. I had heard many stories of designers having tried multiple time just to gain initial acceptance – there are further rounds of judging to be endured to make it onto the catwalk. It was sent over to their Nelson office in 2 old suitcases secured with old ties!
The corset was made before starting the design, as I had recently done an ATASDA workshop with Kirry Toose on corset construction, and wanted to practice – it was supposed to be for myself.
Describe your image
Photo: Jane Simpkins
