Katie Baek
Materiality
‘SOLA’ comes from the Latin root of the word ‘isolation’, which means to be alone; by oneself. As I reflected on the nature of the ‘self’ and what it means to be alone, I developed a visual language triggered by the scenes I saw around me daily: scaffolding, construction/de-construction, and abandonment. This Thesis began with handling raw industrial materials whose properties were the inspiration for my textiles.
The contrast between soft wools next to chains and other hardware resembles the opposition of the self and the concept of loneliness. While some areas of the garments are supported by ‘scaffolding’, the wire textiles also reveal parts of the wearer. A feeling of tension or dissonance can be felt throughout this collection in subtle details where fraying edges meet perfect seams. Latex, steel, and chain are employed alongside 100% wool suiting, wool felt, and cashmere jersey. This collection is the result of intense self-inquiry and is designed to take my muse into a mode of self-resilience and self-reliance.
Bio
Katie Baek is a New York-based artist and fashion designer. Her art is driven by concerns of the nature of the self and the dissonance of the human condition. At the forefront of her process is a desire to examine and reflect upon the primitive roots that connect all living beings. In her work, she constantly strives for a balance between manipulated perfection and unprocessed rawness.