MINNE MUZTUCCARI

My collection is based on the idea of being a spy, as well as on “The Lost Man”, which explores the associations of being lost and how someone would survive. Through my research I came across a drawing which was an interpretation by Marcus Sedwigwick on the author Arthur Ransome, who was also a spy. Sedwigwick’s children’s book called “Swallows and Amazons” is one of the most influential books for children; however the beautiful illustration which I found was based on Ransome’s life and books as a whole. Following aspects of terror and scared elements within the research, I also came to think of obvious things such as compasses as another way of helping a person survive. Just think of a guy who has no access to any technology while being lost – he wants to explore the potentials within his mind, while also exploring new areas and backgrounds on his travels. Through all my research there was still the desirable secrecy of linking to the spy image. Within the collection some garments have an inverted pleat either at the front of the garments or at the back, giving a hidden aspect within the pieces. In addition to the pleats, panels were placed on the shoulder of the jackets, giving the illusion of protection. This unique design feature is used throughout most of my garments. There is also the aspect of two of everything, for example two hoods on one garment, giving the illusion of two sleeves on the shoulders of every piece. My choice of fabrics is a mixture of different weight jerseys, some of which I dyed to match my woven fabrics. One coat was made out of heavy boiled wool which had a beautiful texture. My shirts are all light cottons and for the cranberry shirt I placed some of the wool fabrics on the shoulders, providing the piece with various balances of fabrics. I was never able to visually see my final collection, or see the final turn out, but from seeing it all together on models and in motion, I was blown away with what I was able to achieve. You do forget how much detail and work you put in to each garment and with my pieces, every one of them tells a story!