Inspiration is All Around Us
It is so important to take time for yourself to be inspired by other artists and designers. Not only will this help you in college when working on creative assignments, but it becomes even more vital in your professional career, where you have less assigned structure for what you are required to create. Opportunities for inspiration surround us, whether through our peers, our favorite iconic designers, or special exhibits right in our own backyard. Developing a habit of filling your creative cup ensures you can continuously pour new energy into your own work.
Recently, I had the opportunity to visit a local exhibition titled Personified Existence. Experiencing another designer’s work in person was incredible. Throughout the visit, I wasn't just admiring stunning garments on display, rather I was deeply inspired by the innovative ways the designer incorporated unique structural features into his pieces. With every garment I viewed, I found myself brainstorming ways to translate those specific construction techniques into my next design. For example, I would have never thought of using rows of beads or ribbon to form the entire structure of a bodice, but now I can't wait to try it.
After viewing the exhibit, everyone who attended had the opportunity to hear the designer give a presentation and ask questions. Throughout his talk, it was clear that his designs are directly inspired by current events and seasons in his life. Moments when he felt supported in graduate school were expressed through vibrant creations, while darker colors and more stiff silhouettes reflected times that were more challenging. Hearing him speak reminded me that whatever season of life we are navigating can be communicated through our work which is why it is so important to seek inspiration from what is around us.
During our Q&A time, it was also evident just how hard he works. He shared that when he first started, his pieces would sell for around $300, but after being approached by the Smithsonian, he was able to command a much higher value for his art. His journey is a reminder to never give up on your craft, because incredible opportunities lie ahead if you keep putting in the work. Ultimately, I left the museum inspired not just by his garments, but by his story, which is why seeking out these moments of inspiration is so important for growing designers.
Open to the public through December 6th, the Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art at Auburn University is hosting this extraordinary exhibition highlighting the work of fashion designer Jontay Kahm. Members of AMDA had the chance to tour the gallery in late September, and it was a great reminder of how transformative visiting live fashion exhibits can be for growing designers. I encourage everyone to take advantage of this opportunity to view such intricate pieces while they are right here on campus, especially since museum admission is free for all Auburn students!
