ANDREA
BILGRIEN
The Wave
The goal of this project was to create a garment using both three-dimensional form and applied surface design that work together. I drew visual inspiration for this project from a sandstone rock formation called The Wave. Located in Arizona, this rock formation is particularly breathtaking due to the severe erosion that makes it loos smooth, soft, and fluid. I learned that this landmark has significant historical value in addition to its natural beauty. This rock passage was used by native American people as a passage in part of their migration route. I felt that this was culturally significant and I wanted to implement this in the thought behind my design as well.
I started by sketching a desing, trying to establish a silhouette that was soft and rounded, but not flowy and held its shape. I decided that I wanted to imitate the movement of the sandstone in a light fabric that I could anchor to the more shapely body fabric of the garment.
I used a smooth, brown wool suiting fabric for the body and a light silk georgette that could be dyed for the decorative attachment. I dyes the silk using turmeric and paprika, and I used some fabric paint on top of that to add depth and achieve the color I liked. I wanted the silk georgette to navigate the curves of the body, providing a sort of visual trail for the viewer’s eye.
I've included two sketches below that I would create, should I continue with this inspiration
