The word “sustainable” is flung around so regularly these days that it’s getting harder and harder to swallow. It seems the more green-washing that goes on the less the concept of sustainability means. In a time when we see business adapting sustainability policy as means of keeping on the customers good side, the concern is that the idea of sustainability is becoming more about compliance than changing attitudes.
It’s refreshing amongst all the doom and gloom then to see the Envelope workshops running down at federation square.
Envelope is the creation of Anthea van Kopplen who, in 2001, designed a single garment which generates into a top, skirt, dress, coat and shelter. Part of the inspiration for the garment arose from a newspaper story that van Kopplen discovered about a group of snowboarders who perished after their gear failed to protect them against freezing conditions. The tragedy was a catalyst for the designer who sought to create a single pattern template for a textile object with multiple iterations using sustainable materials. The resulting design produces clothing as clothing (and clothing as accessories) that can be worn alone or on top of other garments.
As part of the State of Design festival Van Kopplen is running the Envelope workshops as an engaging way for participants to have a go at garment design for themselves. Each participant is given a kit which provides everything needed to create their own unique garment that can be worn as a coat, skirt, dress and top.
Learning the skills to make multifunctional clothing from environmentally friendly products? Now that, my friends, is sustainability.
Workshop participants can either turn up on the day or buy tickets at
www.stateofdesign.com.au/tickets
On arrival participants are given the Envelope Starter Kit as part of their $66 fee.
Where: The Atrium at Federation Square
When: July 16, 17, 18 and 19 11am-1pm daily Workshops: Max 9 people, 2 hour duration, 11am daily
Workshop Bookings:
www.stateofdesign.com.au/tickets
Website:
www.envelope.net.au