Surface Design Experiments

 

 

Research #1 Suzani

source: https://www.christies.com/en/stories/a-guide-to-suzani-textiles-9cf74aa2a759435ebf8914e4e14b8bc9

This fabric surface pattern originated from nomadic tribes in Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan and other Central Asian countries. These fabrics are highly collectable and valued for their craftsmanship. Suzani originates all the way back from the 15th century. It not only holds symbolic significance, as it was used by brides and their mothers as dowry, but it was also traditionally used in yurts with several different purposes. The intricate patterns on these textiles are accomplished by using a loom, patterns are drawn out and final details are embroidered on. These pieces were most commonly made in two parts, once each side was completed, the sides were sewn together. Natural dyes traditionally from plants and vegetables were used, in the present day, synthetic dyes are more common. 

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Research #2. Image. Can have more than one image.

 

The history of the paisley pattern is truly fascinating. It’s a print steeped in rich culture and symbolism, and dates back to the Indo-European cultures of over 2,000 years ago.

The design originated in India back in the 11th century, near Kashmir. Whilst there’s no concrete evidence, it’s believed that the pattern was derived from the Zoroastrian symbol of a cypress tree combined with a floral spray, to represent life and fertility.

The popularity of the paisley print became prevalent in the 16th century, famously associated with luxurious Kashmir shawls. An incredibly expensive, sought-after item, the Kashmir shawls were hand woven from fine goat hair, embellished with the paisley print.

This signalled the pattern’s first break into the fashion industry – with the Kashmir shawls becoming incredibly coveted garments, often worn with pride by Persian royalty and perceived as a “robe of honour”.

So, how did the paisley pattern make its way across the globe?

Kashmir shawls originally made their way to Europe in the 16th century, when they were offered as gifts from Kashmiri princes to European officers. It wasn’t long before they landed in the wardrobe of fashion icon and royalty, Empress Josephine.

From there, paisley shawls became the height of European fashion, but they weren’t affordable. Naturally, European textile manufacturers sought ways to replicate the designs to sell on local markets.

It wasn’t until the 19th century when the print gained its modern name, paisley. The Scottish town of Paisley became the leading producer of the Kashmir-inspired shawls, and therefore the buto print became known as paisley. Contrary to common belief, the design didn’t originate in Scotland – though, if you were to visit the town you won’t be surprised to see that the shops and cafes are heavily draped in paisley. 

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Research #3. Image. Can have more than one image.

 

 

https://mytextilefabric.com/products/chinese-jacquard-b88

My patterns are inspired by a combination of the colors of the Chinese new year and my patterns are inspired by a combination of paisley and Suzani, I also was interested in the line work of block printing.

 

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Idea #1

Idea #2

 

Idea #3

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In-process image.

 

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Reflection Statement. Use template below.

 

Introduction:

-DO NOT use the language, “Our assignment was to...” or “We had to....”

Use this language, “The sculpture entitled ___________ was inspired by ________________. “

“My intent is to visually communicate _____________________________.”

Next, explain with more detail:

I wanted to focus on __________________ because _______________.

I decided to include ____________________.

I felt the work was lacking (or you can say “was not producing the results I wanted”) ____________ so I __________.

Conclude. Select at least two of the prompts below::

I want to keep exploring __________________.

I want to learn more about ___________________.

This piece allowed me to explore ___________________.

The making of this work exposed new ideas such as ________________.