Arts Thread

For the Coconogacco primary course, we were asked to think of things from past to present that have shaped our lives and visual language. I chose to merge the childhoods of both myself and the middle schoolers I was teaching English to.

UNDEAD is my graduate collection based on my research on the theory that subculture is dead. My collection challenges this assertion by questioning the supposed importance of authenticity and coherence within subculture, through amalgamating staple garments and iconography from various subcultures. The designs utilise techniques synonymous with the likes of punk and acid house etc. such as appropriation, bricolage and deconstruction- all of which are very relevant to the aesthetic sensibilities of the digital generation. Along with an A+, this collection received the Purfex Award for exceptional design and research. The accompanying essay that I wrote before construction can be read here: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1MDp9KuD1XIoSS3wFBLo1NyPcOhD5M4hV/view?usp=sharing Credits: Film Photography: Maiki Utsumi-Potaka Models: Sam + Jacob Lookbook Photography: Dylan Lee Model: Trantham Make-up: Mackenzie Boddington

When faced with the task of designing a collection in relation to the concept of 'wellbeing' I immediately thought of the culture within my own country and the subsequent detriment it has caused to the mental health of young men (including myself). This collection aims to satirise and subvert the narrow ideas of masculinity within New Zealand's popular culture through reimagined staple garments, such as the Swanndri and All Black's Rugby Jersey. Details include an embroidered poison ivy motif, parodying the All Blacks logo and its ties to toxic masculinity and a woodcut of the slogan "BLOKE OR CHOKE" which serves as a tongue-in-cheek take on the pervasive black and white approach to gender expression in NZ. Lastly, a print of a muscled man by artist and friend Miles Hendricks (check out @miles_pictures + https://exposure2018.massey.ac.nz/students/fine-arts/miles-hendricks/) The intention is not to demonize athleticism, rural-life or traditional expressions of masculinity, but rather question the need for one collective male identity when it has proven itself to be so suffocating and dangerous for many people. Model: Maiki Photographer: Mackenzie Boddington All Clothing, Accessories and Styling: Millar Boddington Location: The Shearers Quarters Farm Cottage, Oueroa