Inspiration

As a costume designer I am constantly trying to find experiences that will give me inspiration for future design projects. One way that I accomplish this is by going to fashion and costume exhibits at museums.

 In March of 2023, I went to the Guo Pei: Art of Couture exhibit hosted by the Bowers Museum in Santa Ana, CA.  This was the second exhibit of Guo Pei's that I have experience, and each time I was blown away by the detail, layering, textures, and techniques used on the garments.  It all becomes inspiration for my work as a costume designer.

Guo Pei: Art of Couture

What inspires me the most is the imagination of Guo Pei as a designer and how she can transform the body with her garments.  The silhouettes can be very etherial.  

Another take away that I get from seeing her garments in-person is the innovation in techniques used.  There is something very familiar in that materials used, but they way appliqués and embroidery are layered give the garments a very original feeling.

As a designer, my goal is not to copy another person's work, but to find my own voice.  Inspiration can spark my own creativity.  It can allow me to reimagine how I see materials and colors, and change my perspective on how I approach design.