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Josslyn Shi

California College of the Arts

Fashion Design BFA

Apparel, Womenswear, Atelier - Pattern Cutting

As an artist and designer, my work is deeply rooted in the exploration of gender, the human body, and the natural world. I am passionate about pushing the boundaries of conventional fashion, creating pieces that challenge societal norms and celebrate the fluidity of existence. Central to my creative philosophy is a commitment to sustainability. I believe that fashion should not only be innovative and expressive but also responsible and conscious of its impact on the environment. This belief drives my exploration of diverse materials and techniques, always striving to incorporate sustainable practices in my work. My goal is to create fashion that is not only visually striking but also promotes a deeper understanding of our interconnectedness with the natural world. Through my work, I seek to explore the intersections of identity, body, and nature. I am fascinated by how these elements influence and reshape each other, and how fashion can be a medium to express this dynamic interplay. My designs aim to evoke a deeper understanding of the human experience, highlighting the beauty and complexity of our identities in relation to the natural world. By intertwining the organic with the constructed, I strive to create a dialogue that not only reflects my personal journey but also invites others to reflect on their own connections with nature and self.

Website

Ephemeral Eclosion

Category: Apparel

Competitions: International

My design draws inspiration from the principles of the biological recycling system found in nature, aiming to showcase clothing that embodies the concepts of recycling and regeneration. By creating garments with detachable and reusable components, wearers are empowered to assemble and interchange parts according to their needs, effectively extending the lifespan of the clothing. Theme: Transformation and Rebirth Central to my theme is the lifecycle and transformation of the butterfly, a symbol deeply rooted in many cultures representing life, rebirth, and eternal existence. In Chinese tradition, the story of "Butterfly Lovers" captures this symbolism vividly, with the butterfly transformation occurring in late spring, epitomizing the resurrection of life and the eternal union of souls. Similarly, in Western culture, butterflies symbolize renewal and transformation, as illustrated in the iconic poster of "The Silence of the Lambs," where the moth signifies deep metamorphosis. Inspired by these cultural motifs, my design seek to capture the fluidity and variability of the butterfly's transformation from larva to adult. By integrating real leather, known for its durability and plasticity, I strive to create timeless fashion pieces that mirror the enduring and transformative qualities of the butterfly. The use of zippers in my designs is not merely functional but symbolic, mimicking the intricate textures of butterfly wings. These zippers facilitate the modularity of the garments, allowing for detachable and reassemblable parts that enhance the clothing's longevity and align with the core principles of sustainable fashion. In this piece, the choice of white and metallic accents conveys a sense of futuristic innovation, while the strategic incorporation of grommets and O-ring fastenersadds a touch of modern sophistication. The garments are designed to evoke a sense of strength and protection, juxtaposed with the dynamic shapes inspired by butterfly wings. This interplay aims to provoke thought about the dynamic interplay between vulnerability and resilience in both nature and fashion. My intention with this design is to transcend the traditional boundaries between body and garment, creating pieces that not only adorn but also embody the concept of infinity and the absence of concrete limitations. The modularity of the designs reflects the endless possibilities of transformation and rebirth, urging a reevaluation of how we perceive and interact with fashion in a sustainable future.

Working with our partners at Arts Thread to develop lifelong learning and career opportunities for students of fashion and design. Our partnership provides the opportunity to compete on a world stage, participate in industry led workshops, set up an outstanding portfolio and gain access to the resources that will kickstart careers in fashion and design.