Fashion Imaging – Statement of Intent, AD394
During my research project I have experimented with designing an insert which will be a part of my future magazine which I will be create during my Final Major Project. The purpose of the inserts is to be a creative supplement to the magazine, which will promote a capsule and sustainable wardrobe. For the inserts, I explored the technique of collage in the form of : geometric, mixed media, and masking. Secondly I experimented with the layout of the insert, and thirdly I created a short 30 second film which can be engaged with through the scanning of a mobile device. I began my project by researching into the exhibition “Fashioned from Nature” curated in the V&A. In the exhibition, I found the collection Rootbound by Diana Scherer particularly inspiring, as she presents roots which are so thin and delicate, however when bound together create a compound resembling material.
From this initial research, I became focused on experimenting with the concept of layering, and the different techniques there are to explore it. Inspired by George Baque I collaged using a range of mixed media such as cardboard, foil, cellophane and tape, to which I then developed to testing wit h my own scans of clothing, materials such as denim and cotton. In the style of Brian Ziff, I created texture with the technique of tearing, and practiced the revealing of an image or a second perspective. Eugenia Eos, also has two perspectives to her work however using a cleaner “cut and paste” approach, to which I recreated using a masking effect. See Figure 1 where I also explored layering images with fragmenting geometric shapes. Creating a more futuristic aesthetic, these collages were successful when considering light and texture, however in the future I aim to combine this approach with less rigid shapes, to reflect the natural ethos of the magazine.
Figure 1, Geometric Collage, Georgia MH
I used contrasting images from magazines to create artwork with a abstract edge and while exploring different materials and approaches, I focused on keeping the theme relevant to the concept of nature vs industrialism. See Figure 2 and Figure 3 for my final insert designs. I used layering techniques which I was inspired by artist and gallery research, and to which I had developed when experimenting however I then carried them by incorporating my own photographs.
The second type of experimentation I carried out was focusing on the layout of the insert. I designed and folded the insert into ways which creates a small booklet, which can be folded out into a double sided creative poster. In reflection this outcome is effective, however in the future I aim to design a way for the folded insert to be attached to the magazine so that it is not loose.
Thirdly, using the app HP Reveal I created a short thirty second video which via the app can be displayed on mobile devices. The short video is inspired by the “Mango Committed Fall 2018” campaign which is a film created to promote Mango’s sustainable collection. The film I created highlights the contrast of environments, in order to highlight the beauty of nature against urbanisation. In reflection I like the concept of scanning the video and how it is immediately available to the viewer, and this is a method of communication which I aim to explore further.
In reflection, I am pleased with my insert experimentations. Prior to my Final Major Project I would like to explore typography and the placement of it on my collages further. When reflecting on the short film, it is well shot and the cuts are clean however I would also like to incorporate my research of typography into film, as this could help create a clear message of intent.
In my Final Major Project I aim to create the future magazine Eternal, for which these inserts will be a part of. In summary this will be mostly influenced with design, however also have informative aspects. When looking at my work, the collages which I have created have a scrapbook / moodboard approach. I enjoyed creating images in this way and feel that this design approach which I am going to carry forward. I will continue to explore and present the concept of a capsule wardrobe and sustainable garment production.
Bibliography
“Committed” Mango, [n.d]. Web. 4 Dec 2018. www.mangocommitted.co.uk