Forging the Protective and Decorative

This currently developing body of work has been inspired by an introduction into blacksmithing processes over the summer. Artists Albert Paley and Tone Vigeland have been important influences in the development of a new body suit. I am interested in using the esthetics of decorative gate construction and high-end fashion trends to engage the viewer in a push pull tension between the repellent and sometimes aggressive nature of armor. The use of circular pinwheel like forms relate to the infinity symbol, which spawns the idea of self-preservation and further relates to the purpose of modern day as well as ancient armors. While these pieces do not necessarily serve as physically protective, they still visually infer the intention. It is my intent to create a high end fashion suit of armor to cover the head, chest, back, shoulders, lower arms, and groin regions.

Lower Arm Vambrace

Iron Wire, Brass, Found Object. Scaled to the human body.

 

 

Brest and Abdominal Plates in progress photo

More to Come....

Albert Paley 

Steven Russel

Tone Vigeland

Alexander Mcqueen 

Danielle Nicole Hills

Other Visual References

Henna Tattoos