S.ave O.ur S.eas

https://kent-islandora.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/ugresearch/2017/art_fashion/31/thumbnail.jpgMy BFA collection will focus on ocean conservation and reflect on how American consumption has damaged our eco systems, both in the fashion industry and other industries. The collection will focus on the beauty of the ocean, why it should be conserved, as well as compare and contrast the effects of human consumption on marine life, with a special focus on ocean acidification and plastic debris in the ocean. These two will specifically be addressed because they are two of the largest threats facing our oceans. They are beautiful events visually, but they also come with a chilling message. The collection focuses on embroideries that exemplify the atrocity of human consumption in our oceans. From afar the surface designs appear quite beautiful, but up close it becomes obvious that the reef-like patterns fade from color to a stark white or become plastic. The collection also uses largely organic fibers rather than harmful synthetics, and certain pieces were constructed to be less wasteful. Sustainable practices are important, however it is a work in progress to reach entirely zero waste patterning. The first step in repairing human consumption is simply to make less products that will be thrown away after one use. Creating wearable garments, that will last a lifetime is the first step in limiting our consumption.