Vivian Cunningham
In Flight
I want my pieces to make the wearer (and viewer) feel as though the garment belongs in another era. I am a historian and historical costumer who has focused on the reproduction of 1920s garments during my time at MECA&D. I also take note of history that has transpired over the last century and allow it to influence my creations, from pandemics to political upheavals. I consider the small details of how history repeats itself in the same way I bring each old style to life. For example, you can compare the rise of gender fluidity and subsequent politics of the late 1920s/early 30s with the gender fluidity movements today and how the rise of gender oppression in the US repeats itself 100 years later. I continually reference the 1920s because I not only love the era and the visual elements in the period's clothing styles but also because of my predilection for research. Research is, and has always been, a significant component of who I am as a creator in art and museum works. I take care with the details of my pieces. Rather than prioritizing originality in their design, I strive to not only recreate each garment but also to recreate its character.Bio
[here]Maine College of Art & Design
522 Congress St.Portland, ME 04101
522 Congress St.Portland, ME 04101
