The Urban Dictionary defines "fly" as "cool, hot in style" or "fine, sexy". Inspired by this lingo and the urban exhibition space of Fly Gallery on Queen Street West in Toronto, I created a Balenciaga styled gown made out of mosquito mesh for my upcoming installation next week. But the ensemble was not complete without a matching purse!!
With my recent success at using aboriginal beading techniques, I used one of Samuel Thomas's patterns for a small beaded bag (I think it might be called a bandolier bag). Initially I used his beading guide for the pattern on the flap but then broke away with my own design for the beading around the edges to highlight the qualities of the black jet. Aboriginal beading meets Balenciaga meets mosquito mesh!

10 comments:
how delicate and exquisite!
you're amazing - what an eye - and skill!
I, for one, cannot wait to see photos of the installation ... it's bound to be just beautiful and intriguing.
It's gorgeous! I love the mix- your beading technique is taking a style of its own. Can't wait to see more, Ingrid:)
Ingrid -
Remarkable concept and wondrous talent at bringing it all together.
Well done, dear!
Jjj
The subtle, barely there image of the classic 1958 Balenciaga baby doll dress behind the purse makes a very effective connection. It looks terrific this way. I also like how the form of the bag is reminiscent of a North American Indian leather tobacco pouch.
I tend to think of oth Balenciaga and native Indians used larger (although not always), bolder flower head motifs, such as on the shoulder of the dress. I wonder if the link between the two design sources might be enhanced with a slightly larger bloom on the bag.
Though not politically correct, the Indian/ 1950s French couture association might be drawn closer in an interesting way, if within the bag, one could see a package of cigarettes. In 1950s Paris everyone was smoking "Galoises." I believe it was Thackeray who said something to the effect that tobacco was one of the “gifts” of the new world/ Indians to Europe. Perhaps a pack of matches (or even a stolen ashtray) from Maxim’s or the Paris Ritz could be used instead of the smokes. Or maybe a small bottle of Balenciaga parfum? In a recent collection, Chanel did transparent quilted bags, done on the classic 2.55 model. This venerable classic handbag was made new and interesting by the idea of being able to see what was within.
Part of the interest or attraction of the material used is the aspect of transparency. If nothing is being “veiled” by the transparency, the ethereal quality of the “material” is not as evident.
The black jet looks fantastic; that is a stroke of genius. Hope you get some more wonderful inspiration for you upcoming installation. Get some rest!
Square with Flair
Oh my... I haven't stopped *sighing* yet. Just exquisite Ingrid. Totally fly, I say ;) Kx
Ingrid your little bag and the exquisite beading are divine! (was going to say "fly", but coming from me that would sound silly LOL).
I would love to see your installation - will have to check out this gallery for times.
♥
wish we could edit our comments - just saw your sidebar pic of your dress (amazing!) and the times.
Hope I get to check it out.
It's wonderful Ingrid!~!!
Ingrid -
Well, I'm supposed to stay off the computer for awhile due to a sore back, but this wonder was staring at me from my dashboard and I had to make an exception. I wish I could see it in person...it looks beautiful. I'm crazy for sheer black and jet... And I love the shape. Applause.
Ingrid, I so admire the way you bring together concepts and ideas in tangible, utterly original visual designs. Your work speaks to my head as well as my eye and heart. I love it, and I love your purse and dress.
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