This installation is made entirely out of used and unwanted clothing. Most of it came from family, friends, my professors, and the Salvation Army in Saugus, MA. The “bodies” in this installation were sewn together through a monotonous process, reminiscent of the long hours of labor textile workers endure around the world. The pile conceptually represents what our future holds if we do nothing to prevent climate change.
The fast fashion industry notoriously promotes the overconsumption of clothes and accessories, which constitutes a multitude of consequences that people either don’t see or don’t know about. Through this project, I want to shed light on these issues, so that consumers might make more informed decisions when shopping. Better buying alternatives such as slow fashion or second-hand clothing can help the planet, and help end unethical practices such as child labor and slave-like working conditions.
With my artwork, I want to bring attention to the particular role that individuals have in the destruction or preservation of our planet, and the human rights violations associated with those decisions. We can change the cultural hunger that led to the creation of the fast-fashion industry, one purchase (or non-purchase) at a time. My artwork is the end product of a long line of textile work. Many hands have touched the same clothes I did, but I have the luxury of good working conditions and a voice. I hope my voice makes a difference.
