THE MAKING PROCESS
Creating this final project has been an exciting journey, inspired by a variety of sources. Explore this section to discover the making process, the inspirations behind the work, and the lessons I've learned along the way.
TECHNICOLOUR WORLD
Natural dyes possess incredible vibrancy and beauty. My aim was to showcase a comprehensive spectrum of bright, bold colours, covering everything in between. Using Wild Chroma as a portfolio, I have introduced new colourways and conducted further experiments. It has also been invaluable for planning new designs and ideas, as well as serving as a resource in classes.
EXPERIMENTING WITH NATURAL DYES
Experimenting with natural dyes is central to this project and my ongoing work. Creating a new collection involves practice-led research into the production of natural dyes. In this project, I have experimented with various mordanting techniques and used different mordants, such as copper, iron, and citric acid, to enhance or deepen colours. Through experimentation and being receptive to diverse outcomes, I have successfully achieved the specific colours desired for the Motherland collection.
DRAWING & PAINTING
I have always had a passion for painting and drawing, and creating surface pattern designs has become my favourite artistic expression. This project has been particularly inspired by traditional folk art, which has captivated me for its unique charm and cultural richness. Folk art fascinates me because, despite originating from diverse cultures across the globe, it often shares common elements that form a connecting thread, weaving a tapestry of universal human experiences. At the heart of folk art lies storytelling, a tradition that conveys the values, myths, and histories of different communities. Inspired by this, I aimed to use folk art-inspired drawings to tell my own story, combining traditional motifs with personal experiences in my designs.
NATURAL DYE CLASS
I had the opportunity to conduct a natural dye workshop at the university, and it was a great success. The participants thoroughly enjoyed working with natural dyes, gaining hands-on experience that highlighted the excitement and power of nature's colours. Engaging directly with the process allowed them to appreciate the rich potential of natural materials and the vibrant hues they can produce. Through these workshops, I aim to inspire designers to adopt sustainable practices and incorporate natural dyeing techniques into their work. By doing so, they can contribute to a more eco-friendly fashion and textile industry, embracing the beauty of nature while reducing environmental impact.
TRAVEL INSPIRATION
My experiences traveling through Southeast Asia and living in Vietnam and Mexico have been incredibly enriching. I have cherished the time spent immersed in various cultures and the opportunity to learn from different regions of the world. These diverse places have each felt like a home to me in their own way, offering a unique sense of belonging across the globe. Through this project, I aim to reflect on these experiences and celebrate the beauty and diversity of our world. It's a tribute to the rich cultural tapestry that connects us all, and a celebration of the artistic inspirations drawn from these vibrant and varied environments.
THE JOY OF BUNDLE DYEING
I love bundle dyeing! There's a unique rhythm to the process that I find captivating, allowing for a creative flow that feels almost meditative. Working with bundle dyeing techniques has been a joy, as it enables the creation of abstract, bold, and exciting designs. I've particularly enjoyed experimenting with bright colours, aiming to produce prints that not only showcase vibrant hues but also reflect my personal style. The unpredictability of the results adds an element of surprise and excitement, making each piece a unique expression of creativity.
SCREEN PRINTING WITH NATURAL DYES
Screen printing with natural dyes is a lengthy and intricate process, but the results are truly impressive. It's remarkable to see such clean and detailed prints created entirely with natural dyes. I have predominantly used alum and iron as mordants, followed by dyeing with natural dyes. This method not only highlights the beauty and precision achievable with natural materials but also demonstrates the rich potential of sustainable printing techniques.
