27/04/2016
T R A N S G R E S S I N G __ C O R P O R E A L I T Y
- LOOKBOOK A/W14/15 - PART OF THE BACHELOR PROJECT
The idea of creating the collection arose out of a feeling of discomfort connected with the necessity of operating in a corporeal world .The notion of a singular model of beauty, and of an unattainable aspiration towards bodily perfection presented to us through glossy magazines, billboards and films influences our norms and desires, and subconsciously shapes our aspirations. This tendency undermines the value of natural variance, hinders the process of self acceptance, and is even a factor contributing towards serious diseases such as anorexia and bulimia. This uncompromising ‘body cult’ leads towards women inadvertently disfiguring themselves in a futile attempt to conform to these accepted norms. I often wonder to what extent intentional decisions made in front of the mirror relate to this objective model of attractiveness and how much they are a case of comfort and personal aesthetics.
These fundamental aesthetic assumptions have lead to a focus on distinct forms which correspond to varying levels of self acceptance. Many pieces manifest a symbolic defensiveness towards, and attempt to disguise natural body shapes. Others on the other hand highlight imperfections in order to present their beauty. This idea is conveyed in my collection through aesthetic play in the use of ‘hairy’ prints and wrinkled leather, an assertion that true beauty is found in individuality and imperfection.