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Into the Blues

Cliona McLoughlin

She/her

Anchored by the tempestuous nature of the sea, this spring/summer textiles collection explores the colour blue and its association with feelings of melancholy, longing and isolation. As the ocean was a key source of inspiration, the fabrics and processes used were mindfully selected in an attempt to honour and protect our blue planet. Single process prints have been used on natural, tactile fabrics of organic cotton, hemp and silk, with nuances of blue coming from indigo, cyanotype and pigment printing. The minimalistic use of colour and form were inspired by the artist Henri Matisse, in particular his use of vivid blue and the sense of movement created in his work. This collection considers the notion that, in embracing the blues, we can become more resilient to deeper feelings of despair. Just like the tides, the blues come in waves.

Delicate, Cyanotype print on silk twill

Delicate, Cyanotype print on silk twill

The First Day, indigo print on dupion silk

The First Day, indigo print on dupion silk

Ocean Eyes, digital print on sandwashed habotai silk

Ocean Eyes, digital print on sandwashed habotai silk

Hope is the Thing with Feathers, indigo dyed silk twill and salvaged turkey feathers

Hope is the Thing with Feathers, indigo dyed silk twill and salvaged turkey feathers

Blue Nights, digital print on silk twill

Blue Nights, digital print on silk twill

Sabbia e Mare, pigment print on tea stained organic cotton/hemp cloth

Sabbia e Mare, pigment print on tea stained organic cotton/hemp cloth

Lost in the Light, pigment print on organic cotton/hemp denim in context on the body

Lost in the Light, pigment print on organic cotton/hemp denim in context on the body

Into the Blues, Final Collection

Into the Blues, Final Collection

Research

Research photography

Research photography

Primary research drawings

Primary research drawings