Modelling Samples

Experimenting with potential outcomes

Placing the samples on a model enabled me to visualise a function for them. These particular embroidery samples have the qualities to be multifunctional accessories, they have multiple uses and are very versatile. However I believe that they work best as a head piece as it relates more to the theme of the fairground, and is an elaborate and essential part of a costume.

The above mohair piece however also works well as a neck piece because of its full and flamboyant attributes. 

Modelling the samples as a cuff for a sleeve or a bracelet, playing with the 'edges' theme alongside our fairground brief.

Developing embroidery samples

During the two week period of embroidery workshops I found myself struggling with some of the techniques and how it was possible to use them to make appropriate and finished samples. 

 I used the hair pin to sew yarn onto a piece of fabric which then transforms into a long piece of fringing.

 That hint of glitter gives the piece some glamour and extravagance. The pipe cleaner also gives the piece the ability to bend into different shapes, making it versatile in terms of what kind of accessory it could be. This diverse quality could turn it from a headpiece into a necklace, or even a cuff. 

Creating a bigger version with red mohair yarn for a more elaborate effect. The over the top and bold nature of this piece suits what I am aiming for in this project. 

Sketchbook development

I began my sketchbook by looking closely at the details in the images that I had been gathering on pinterest. My approach to sketchbook work has always been quite minimalist, I prefer to focus on one particular aspect in order to emphasise and make a statement. 

Inspiration from the Joana Vasconcelos exhibition, I tried to capture the detail, the colour and the abstractness of her work.

Cy Twombly

A painting by one of my favourite artists that relates to some of the paintings in my sketchbook. I enjoy the glimpses of bright colours mixed with subtle light tones.

Attempting to include painterly approaches to the brief by calculating what colours work best together. Firstly I create a textured surface, then paint onto it in order to see how my designs react with the background.

Developing a colour palette

Costumes from Blackpool Pleasure beach costume archive

A strong colour palette is vital to this project. It will be the main focus of my collection, and as I have chosen to concentrate on the elaborate, extravagant, over the top side of the fairground, the colours I use must resemble and reiterate this theme. The room was inundated with glitter and glam, the costumes made me think of what I could achieve in this project and how I could incorporate the inspirational pieces there into my work.   

House of Holland A/W'14

Collaborating colours- Red and pink can be seen on the runway this year. These clashing colours create a controversial visual display.  

Bright bold colours are a must when it comes to fabric and yarn selection. I want my pieces to stand out as flamboyant, loud and decorative objects. My trip to see the Joana Vasconcelos exhibition influenced me to think big and bold, and that my work should meet no boundaries.

Weave sample shown in a tutorial

Glittery yarn will be a must when weaving in order to translate the sparkle and glamour of the fairground and carnival atmosphere.

Gold will play a significant part in my colour palette as it seemed to be a big component in a lot of carnival life, in costumes and fairground rides. It has a rich quality that can be perceived as being a little tacky and vulgar, however I intend to use gold as tastefully as I can without it being too overpowering.

Dolce and Gabbana Summer 2014

Initial Embroidery Samples

These samples were created during the first week of embroidery workshops where I enjoyed experimenting with different textures and colours, and what worked well together.

The sample above is made by using a cornely embroidery machine, specifically the thick moss setting. I wanted to experiment with creating my own texture and surface. The hot pink colour of the fabric-thread combination is however too overpowering for my colour palette, even though my theme is based on flamboyancy my intentions are to approach it with elegance rather than an overwhelming nature. 

Experimenting with strands of yarn to get an idea of different colour combinations. Using a gold pipe cleaner to add a little glitter and a sense of structure to the sample. 

VV Rouleaux

"The Chanel of ribbon and trimmings shop"

Annabel Lewis was an owner of two flower shops in London, until 1990 when she decided to open a 'ribbon, trimmings and braids' shop, because as Annabel said herself "flowers die".

A business such as V V Rouleaux isn't one you can find on every street corner, it specialises in stocking the finest ribbons and trimmings that cater for all needs, from fashion to interior, textiles to theatre. They source their materials from all over the world, mostly Japan but also Italy, France and Germany.

I personally fell in love with the delicate beaded pieces laid out on the table. The intricacy of the bead work captured my eye and inspiration as I aim to create a piece of work that is both abstract and detailed. 

Joana Vasconcelos

During the first week of unit X I visited Manchester Art Gallery in order to see an extraordinary exhibition by Joana Vasconcelos. I was not disappointed with what I saw. Her work was scattered all around the gallery, however I paid to see some of her bigger pieces like 'Lilicoptere'.

The glamour and the presence of it inspired me to great lengths. The interior and exterior is rather magnificent, and has given me several ideas that will aid me in this project. It has influenced me in terms of texture, colour but above all her work has inspired me to be flamboyant. 

Glitter, feathers and sequins galore, Joana Vasconcelos has definitely given me the confidence to develop my design ideas. I intend to create a collection that combines a range of techniques, from knit to weave and embroidery, utilising them in a way that will fully represent my theme and concept.

Developing a concept

After delving into the world of the fairground, visiting archives and attractions I have decided to concentrate more on the performance side. The dazzling costumes and extravagant head wear will be the initial basis of my work.   

I intend to approach this unit with an open mind about the culture of the fairground and will aim to produce a series of pieces that resemble this culture.   

Bora Aksu Spring 2013

When conducting research on accessories, head pieces have attracted a lot of my attention. I would be interested to try and combine accessories into one, i.e a necklace and a head piece in one or shoulder pads. 

Here is a link to my Pinterest board for Unit X that contains images that have inspired me so far in this project.

http://www.pinterest.com/sionedmedi1/unit-x/

An introduction to Belle Vue

"The show ground of the world"

Founded in 1836 by John Jennison.

During the course of the week we were introduced to Belle Vue with lectures and a visit to Chetham's Library to see their archive collection. 

Never before had I heard of Belle Vue, a place in Gorton, Manchester that attracted two million people a year, had three train stations and their own zoo. It was a hundred acres of attraction, a 'magical' place with amusements of all kinds. From thrilling rides to lavish ball rooms, there was definitely enough to be seen and do.

Chetham library archives of Belle Vue

There is no doubt that this extraordinary place was a popular destination for all ages, known all across the country and beyond. However it thrived as a money making scheme, and proved to be a ruthless business. When exotic animals were shipped to their zoo as another way of attracting people, no one knew how to take care of them. The Chetham Library visit gave me an insight into the vastness and extravagance of Belle Vue.

Walking the monkeys
A photograph belonging to Chetham Library's collection

Mini Archive

A visit to Blackpool Pleasure Beach

Unaware of what Blackpool Pleasure Beach had to offer, I went on the trip oblivious to the fact that I would be inspired by what I was about to see. The first half of the day was mildly interesting, the walk around the attractions in the sunshine was pleasant however the archive tour was slightly disappointing. The collection they had was a bit dated and was unimpressed with the layout. 

The next part of the visit was a sneak peek into the world of Blackpool Pleasure Beach's 10,000 costumes and outfits worn by their very own performers. This proved to be far more appropriate to what I want to achieve during Unit X under the theme 'fairground'. Seeing the extravagance of the costumes and materials filled me with ideas of what the fairground can actually mean, and that the art of performing is a key element of the over all experience.