This project is inspired by the Japanese tradition of Kintsugi, which values the beauty of imperfection and the transformation of broken objects into new forms. The project uses waste materials to create unique and imperfect soft sculpture, interiors, and fashion pieces through surface design techniques such as Japanese patchwork, dyeing, printing, and embroidery. The focus is on sustainability and the acceptance of imperfection as a fundamental aspect of creativity, as seen in the Kintsugi tradition. The potential of waste materials and unconventional materials to be transformed into something beautiful and functional, while also honoring the value of imperfection and the beauty of the broken. The project encourages viewers to think about their own consumption habits and the impact of waste on the environment, while also showcasing the potential of traditional techniques to be adapted and transformed in contemporary design.
My starting point for my project was looking into the Japanese tradition of Kintsugi which is the smashing and breaking of plates and gluing them back together in golden ways and at the same time embracing imperfections. The idea of embracing broken while highlighting the cracks with gold, is a concept that makes the maker think about the different ways pieces can be connected back together and how humans are not able to control everything. To embrace the flawed or imperfect and to practice to accept the way things are, and let go of control. I will start by breaking materials down and joining them together in experimental/golden ways, while sourcing and collecting dead-stock sportswear. I will then be using my broken down pieces to create scrunched and distorted three dimensional materials and look into the idea of connection through bonding, embroidery and more unconventional methods of joining/finishing.
