Research Seminars

BodyScape

Di Mainstone

Wednesday 25 February 2009, 14:00, Room 105

Abstract

Exploring the terrain between fashion, technology and interaction, Di Mainstone will be discussing her evolution from London-based fashion designer to nomadic creator of interactive couture. Focusing on a selection of her research projects created in Banff, Montreal, Rotterdam, Boston and London Di will explain some of the creative and technical challenges faced when experimenting in this unique space. She will also describe the role of cross-disciplinary collaboration within her practice, examining how this approach has enhanced and expanded her working methodologies. With the help of architect Kate Cheyne, Di will close by offering a glimpse of their current work-in-progress, an interactive garden of memories entitled 'The Melancholy Haha'.

Di Mainstone's Links:

http://sharewear.projects.v2.nl <http://sharewear.projects.v2.nl/>
http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=7kc41dKjA1c
http://www.xslabs.net/skorpions
http://www.dimainstone.com <http://www.dimainstone.com/>

Kate Cheyne's Links:
http://www.architectsinresidence.co.uk <http://www.architectsinresidence.co.uk/>

Bio

Trained in fashion design at Central Saint Martins College of Art, London, Di Mainstone creates playful adornments that roam the body hiding and revealing tales that are close to her heart. Collaborating with a range of artistic institutions, including the Banff New Media Institute, XS Lab Montreal and most recently V2_, Institute for the Unstable Media Rotterdam, she has been able to expand her research practice simultaneously developing a diverse wardrobe of wearable artifacts. A hands-on choreography of fashion, technology and performance, each piece is an exploration of human behaviour. A quest of discovery for those who inhabit their fibers and an alluring curiosity for those who cohabit their space. Di’s wearable installations have been displayed internationally at conferences, exhibitions and festivals. This has led to workshops and guest lecturing at academic institutions including The Royal College of Art, Central Saint Martins College of Art, NYU, Parsons, Emily Carr, Willem de Kooning, UKD, MICA and Concordia University.