upcycling and underwear

I began using underwear in my work as part of an inquiry into identity whilst exploring issues of upcycling and sustainability, feminism, body image, and the exposure of self through the subversive use of intimate and personal clothing.

By using donated underwear in my artworks, I touch on the culture of fashion and the fashion of culture, and open up the possibilities of exploring the sociological factors behind why we wear what we wear, why we conceal what we conceal, and how and why we are influenced to do so.

The women’s underwear I use is donated by friends, family, colleagues, students, eminent feminists, anonymous contributors, underwear companies, celebrities and members of the public.

Each donation comes with a story, which forms part of the feminist narrative behind the pieces/installations.  The stories received have been funny, moving, intriguing and full of memories and comments on how our bodies change over the years.

In my making process the undergarments, stories and names of donors (if given) are not aligned, so identity and ‘anonymity’ are respected.

Through my work with underwear, I aim to push the boundaries of art textiles and to make a feminist statement that gives women, whose voices may not otherwise be heard, a platform to speak through my art.  My conceptual pieces display what is (usually) unseen: marks, stains and holes, which are preserved as ‘landmarks’, holding memories of previous owners and echoes of former identities.