Engineered Print
In the spring season of 2023, this design was conceptualized with the intent of highlighting the values of sustainability, artisanal craftsmanship, and technological innovation. The fabric pattern was meticulously crafted to minimize wastage, ensuring that 100% of the fabric is utilized in the final product. The diamonds were fashioned from iridescent acrylic sheets through a process of laser cutting and subsequently interlinked with acrylic chain links.
Original print designed in Procreate then printed on 4 yards (56" x 144") of Performance Piqué. Fabric content: 100% polyester
Inspiration was drawn from Artist, Soo Sunny Park's "Unwoven Light" installation. Created from iridescent plexiglass inserted inside fence cells welded together to achieve a series of lacy, sculptural forms, which were delicately suspended in space. From seeing this I imagined a dress made from iridescent plexiglas. From this, Diamond was born. Read more: http://www.ricegallery.org/soo-sunny-park Photo by Nash Baker © nashbaker.com
Inspiration was drawn from Artist, Soo Sunny Park's installation "Unwoven Light" Read more: http://www.ricegallery.org/soo-sunny-park Photo by Nash Baker © nashbaker.com
Laser cutting the links to attach the diamonds
Laser cutting the Diamonds at the Lane Innovation Hub
Collaborating with an engineering student to design the diamond on solidworks.
The iridescent diamonds adorning the dress possess the remarkable ability to refract light in a manner that is highly dependent on the observer's position and the amount of light exposure. Consequently, each person's visual encounter with the dress is distinct and personal. The form-fitting fabric contour of the dress seamlessly envelops the body, whilst the diamond embellishments elegantly cascade over it, modulating light in the process. Due to the substantial weight of the diamonds, each link had to undergo a meticulous sealing process with JB superweld, forming an unobtrusive, transparent barrier that effectively prevented the links from detaching from the diamonds. In assembling the diamonds, a process akin to piecing together a puzzle was employed, allowing for optimal placement until the diamonds draped flawlessly over the dress form.