Hand Weave

Weaving plays a large role in Chilean textiles therefore, I decided to experiment with different weave types using the loom and yarns I bought in Chile, to reflect Chilean culture. 

This was my initial weaving experiment using thick materials and contrasting colours and incorporating a photograph relevant to the dictatorship. The structure of this textile was unstable as the the weave was loose.

To develop the weave I have used a tighter weave that holds together much better. Inspired by artist Nicole Dextras, I have started to incorporate natural materials such as twine within the weave. I have also experimented with dying wools using natural processes such as boiling within onion skin to create earthy desert colours. 

Geysers

Here are some experiments using ink and water that reflect photographs taken of the geysers in the Atacama Desert. Although I like the effect of the drawings, I have made a conscious decision to not develop them any further as I feel they don't really reflect my intentions and that of the desert clearly.  

Footprints

In response to artist Paulene Cattle, I created this latex footprints to represent human existence that stays within the desert and how the effects of the dictatorship still remain. 

Colour or natural skin tone? 

Lets Grown Salt Crystals

To represent the salt flats in the desert, I started to experiment using salt I had brought back from the Atacama. To develop using salt, I experimented with growing salt crystals to represent the salt crystals found in the desert and to incorporate a natural reflection.

After researching techniques on growing salt crystals, I wanted to test them out by dissolving salt in water and leaving it to evaporate in natural sunlight.

Here is fabric and paper placed in salt water with a splash of vinegar, ready to evaporate.

Astronomía

In the documentary 'Nostalgia for the Light' themes of astronomy are highlighted within the desert as the skies are the clearest in the world. I wanted to re-create the night sky print, with influences from fashion designers.

Desert Textures

Creating scenes and textures of the Atacama using textile materials: latex, felt, wax&salt.

Primary Photographs

More primary Images from the Atacama Desert, Chile. I want to demonstrate how the desert environment varied from dry salt flats to green lakes.

Disappeared

For my FMP project, I intend to engage in thematic exploration of the Atacama Desert, Chile. I recently watched a documentary film called 'Nostalgia For The Light' by Patricio Guzman. The film highlights differences between Astronomers searching the stars, and women still searching for their 'disappeared' relatives buried in the Atacama under the dictatorship of Pinochet. I intend to highlight these themes through creative experimentation, inspired by my own trip to Chile. As I specialise in fashion and textiles, for my final piece I will create an inventive garment that highlights key themes.

These are some of my primary imagery taken in the Atacama Desert. I intend to explore the beauty of the natural environment, focusing on colours and textures.