EXHIBITION STATEMENT

Introduction 

Can you really buy happiness? Many shoppers, whether they are consciously aware of it or not, walk into shopping malls and retail stores with an affirmative answer to that question. Consumers pick up an item and convince themselves that they must have it to be happy, but is that true? If not, what makes us happy? Is a desire to express personal style valid? How about creating art for art’s sake? Is an interest in fashion something that conflicts with a desire to be nonmaterialistic or overly concerned with material possessions or wealth? What are ways to limit our consumption for the sake of the planet, and how can artists create in sustainable ways? The capstone project explores the ways in which our urge to create art and express ourselves through clothing can be satisfied in eco-friendly ways within the context of preserving mental wellness. It suggests that creativity and joy can be fostered with what we already have.

Literature Review

Americans today own much more commodities than past generations (DeAngelis). Nonetheless, this does not seem to correlate with an increased sense of happiness. Moreover, psychologist David G. Meyers notes that young adults are slightly less happy and at much greater risk of depression (DeAngelis). Furthermore, studies show that materialistic tendencies are linked to lower life satisfaction (Large). Overconsumption not only has a toll on mental wellness, it also has a toll on the environment. Human beings are depleting the earth of its natural resources at an alarming (Shop ’Til You Drop 35:50-37:25).

In recent years, fashion brands have implemented strategies to limit the negative effects of overconsumption. For example, Stella McCartney uses recycled textiles for products and recyclable material for packaging (“Top 13”). Spence Phipps donates to environmental nonprofits, and Marie Serre’s collection is made from at least 50% upcycled material (“Top 13”). Fashion brands like these display that creativity is not hindered by efforts to protect the planet. Creativity and innovation are fostered by the challenge posed!

The capstone rebels against the notion that buying brand new products is the means to achieving happiness. Making art from disregarded materials can offer something new and exciting, and many designer fashion brands would agree.  

Methods

The design process began with gathering pieces of unwanted clothing and assessing what materials were necessary in addition to those at hand. A continual process of testing and refining ideas was had through the creation of mood boards, thumbnails, and finalized sketches. Various silhouettes were considered. Sewing and painting techniques were practiced before commencing the final pieces and tutorials were viewed to guide the process.

The decision to transform an old dress into a two-piece set serves a sustainably driven goal. Moreover, having clothing in one's closet that one is willing to wear several times or in different manners is a sustainable practice. A pair of shoes with a yellow pattern was rarely worn despite being in good condition. The aim was to incorporate a fun yet simple design on the shoes that can be paired with current wardrobe options.

Audience and Impact

            The audience of the project consists of people with a passion to create art and express personal style through clothing. The broader audience includes consumers. The project aims at raising awareness of overconsumption and the problems excessive spending habits pose to well-being and the environment. A personal goal is to partake in an activity that fosters happiness. By wearing these pieces, a conversation can be initiated about the importance of reducing consumeristic tendencies and the power of art to foster a sense of wellness.

References

DeAngelis, Tori. “Consumerism—Consumerism and its discontents.” Monitor on Psychology, American Psychological Association, vol. 35, no. 6, June 2004, https://www.apa.org/monitor/jun04/discontents.

Large, Chris. "Rethinking consumerism for the sake of young people's mental health (and the planet)."  Environmental Funders Network, 24 Mar. 2018, https://www.greenfunders.org/2018/05/24/rethinking-consumerism-for-the-sake-of-young-peoples-mental-health-and-the-planet/

Shop 'Til You Drop: The Crisis of Consumerism. Dir. Alex Peterson, Gene Brockhoff, Jeff Devereaux, Jonah Sharp. Media Education Foundation, 2010. Kanopy. Web. 27 Nov. 2021.

“Top 13 Sustainable Fashion Designers Making a Change in 2021.” MOTIF, 19 Oct. 2021, https://motif.org/news/top-sustainable-fashion-designers/.  

Acknowledgments

A special thanks to my mother, the one who taught me how to sew and helped me through this journey. Thanks for always being so supportive of my artistic endeavors. I love you!