This January, the M continued its partnership with Saint Paul Conservatory for Performing Artists (SPCPA), offering Found Fashion, a unique fashion design class for the school’s monthlong J-Term. Curator of Learning and Engagement Nancy Ariza worked with art teachers Brandon Chambers and Brooks Turner to create a dynamic course intended to give students professional experience in an area of artistic practice.
Students purchased materials for their projects from Goodwill, empowered by an artist talk from teaching artist Mary Johnson, who uses everyday textiles and objects in her artworks. Most of the students focused on repurposing found clothing, but a few got creative with discarded items and other unconventional materials. Mary Johnson also provided a sewing tutorial to the students with tips on garment construction as well as mid-term reviews of their projects.
A group of Found Fashion students pose at the runway show on January 21, 2023.
A group of Found Fashion students pose at the runway show on January 21, 2023.
Reflecting on her participation, Mary said, “It was a wonderful experience… I was impressed with the students’ work and gratified at their obvious enjoyment of walking the runway in their awesome creations.”
The course culminated with two private, student-produced runway shows at the M. Students walked the runway in their handmade outfits, displaying both their out-of-the-box rethinking of found materials as well as their artistic dedication to creating something new. With friends and family in attendance at both shows, the students gained confidence and stride being cheered on as they advanced down the runway.
Student Bella Sicora reflected on her experience with exuberance and empowerment: “The creativity within this class was crazy! There were no two outfits even remotely alike, and everyone worked so hard. Then, when it came time to put everything together, I don’t think I would want to change anything. Everyone was so cooperative and had great ideas that made everything run so smoothly… I think I can speak on behalf of almost everyone in saying that I’m so glad I got to experience the fashion show and the process that came with it!”
Photos by Roosevelt Mansfield.
The M has an ongoing partnership with SPCPA, acknowledging the great power and energy that comes with engaging young artists. This spring, students have the opportunity to take a course on public art and murals. Stay tuned!
Class roster: Rogen Abdalla, Luci Aslakson, Dia Balderramos, Aaliyah Bluhm, Milo Borowska, Emery Braun, Lucy Cable, Lily Cozine, Brenna Cronin, Linnea Dramdahl, Ro Erickson, Cecelia Fawcett, Franny Ganser, Marina Juarez, Ella Kerkvilet, Phoenix Leuthold, Jester Lewis, Breann McPhan, Gaokia Moua, Cecilia Palombo, Nathaniel Rodriquez-Rood, Bella Sicora, Eowyn Simpson, Elise Swaim, Bobbie Tellez-Casco, Jeremiah Tulay, Sullivan Villela, and Evonnie Wilson.
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