Researcher(s)
- Casey Tyler, Apparel Design, University of Delaware
Faculty Mentor(s)
- Katya Roelse, Fashion and Apparel Studies, University of Delaware
Abstract
This project aims to improve the aesthetic and community engagement of the Fashion and Apparel Studies Department at the University of Delaware. It consists of two different art installations: a woven mural and a painted mural, both designed to reflect the department’s commitment to sustainability, diversity, and innovation.
The first installation is a woven mural measuring 4 feet by 20 feet, located on the second floor of Allison Hall West. The mural is constructed using chicken wire and fabric scraps collected from students’ senior collections. As a rite of passage, each senior contributes a piece of their fabric to the mural, symbolizing their journey through the program. The fabric pieces are tagged with information such as the designer’s name, media used, and collection details, providing context and recognition to each contribution. These tags are designed in Adobe Illustrator and laser-cut to mimic museum archival tags, adding a professional and archival quality to the installation.
The second installation is a painted mural that spans all three levels of the stairwell in Allison Hall West. It features line drawings depicting key pieces of fashion history and illustrations representing different fields within the department, such as fashion design, merchandising, and textile science. A continuous painted “stitch” connects these illustrations, symbolizing the interconnected nature of the fashion industry. The mural also includes carefully selected quotes from prominent figures in fashion, chosen for their relevance and positive impact on the viewer.
This project not only aims to beautify the department’s physical space but also serves as an educational tool, showcasing the history and diversity of the fashion industry. This aligns with the broader goals of promoting sustainable practices and fostering an inclusive community within the fashion and apparel industry while providing an opportunity for research in textile manipulation and interior design.