Process

Week 1

Ideation & sketches

I've been refining my ideas through sketches, both by hand and on my iPad, where I experimented with different symbols and their potential uses in my designs. My goal was to figure out how these symbols could be changed and "played" with to add new meaning and functionality to my clothing.

I chose one symbol to highlight and used Adobe Illustrator to alter it. After finalizing the design, I experimented with laser cutting the symbol onto reclaimed leather to explore how it may work as part of the material and overall aesthetic of my clothing.

References

During the week-long focus on circular open-source fashion, Timo Rissanen inspired me first. His work strongly connected with me, guiding my decision to use this technique for my project. This week, I learned the power of circular design ideas and how they fit into my aim of creating sustainable and meaningful garments.

Link; https://timorissanen.com/

My second influence comes from Make/Use (https://makeuse.nz/), a project that investigates sustainable fashion through the viewpoint of zero-waste design. Make/Use's creative method highlights how clothing may be designed and made to reduce waste while increasing functionality and inventiveness.

Their emphasis on modular design and human engagement is consistent with my own goal of developing clothing that are not only sustainable, but also meaningful and flexible. The project has inspired me to reconsider standard garment manufacturing practices and embrace techniques that prioritize sustainability and conscientious consumerism.

Link; https://makeuse.nz/

Julia Koerner work will serve as my next source of inspiration as I add parametric design into my clothing. Her pioneering approach to merging fashion, architecture, and technology demonstrates how parametric design can impart distinct structural and aesthetic features to garments. Julia Koerner designs show how computational approaches can be utilized to make clothing that is both visually appealing and useful. Her work motivates me to investigate how parametric shapes might be included into my project, strengthening the interaction of geometry, sustainability, and current design.

Link; https://www.juliakoerner.com/

Books

Week 2

moodboard

Presentation

Zero-Geo by Christina Avagi

Week3

Developing the Vest Collection

As I progressed in my project, I decided to focus on vests for women as the core garments for my redesigns. This choice was driven by the vest’s versatility, its historical significance in various cultures, and its ability to serve as both a functional and symbolic piece of clothing.

This week, I concentrated on developing modular redesigns and preparing them for laser cutting. For my first vest, I chose to explore the theme of lines—a fundamental element in art and symbolism. Inspired by Wassily Kandinsky’s theory of lines, I delved into their expressive power and dynamic nature. At the same time, I researched their significance in Armenian heritage, where linear patterns appear in petroglyphs and traditional ornaments, often symbolizing water—a vital element in both nature and spirituality.

Water and Line Symbolism

My journey began with the Water-Line Concept, where I studied how lines have been used to represent water in Armenian petroglyphs and ornamental motifs. These ancient carvings, found in Armenia’s prehistoric rock art, depict flowing, undulating lines symbolizing rivers, movement, and life itself. This connection resonated deeply with my work, as I sought to merge these historical elements with modern design.

Redesigning Armenian Linear Ornaments

Building on this concept, I started to redesign Armenian linear ornaments, reinterpreting them in a contemporary way while preserving their symbolic essence. I worked meticulously on mapping these ornaments, ensuring they could be integrated seamlessly into the structure of my vests. This process involved experimenting with different line compositions, refining them through digital fabrication techniques, and preparing them for laser cutting.

Integrating the Catalog

Since my garments carry deep meaning and historical references, I believe they should be accompanied by a catalog that explains their symbolism and design process. The catalog will serve as a guide for viewers and wearers, helping them understand the inspiration behind each piece and the significance of the geometric patterns used.

Through this approach, I aim to create vests that are not only wearable garments but also artistic expressions of cultural heritage, geometry, and contemporary craftsmanship

Christ by Christina Avagi

I attempt cuted modules with some upside leather to see how they operate.