THE UNIVERSITY OF NEW SOUTH WALESThesis/Dissertation Sheet
Surname or Family name:
Clifton-Cunningham
First name:
Alana
Abbreviation for degree as given in the University calendar:
MDes(Hons)
School:
School of Design Studies
Faculty:
College of Fine Arts
Title:
Second skin: exploring perceptions of contemporary knittingThesis Abstract
Using written and studio research, the above research question is interrogated through a body of practical work, that evolved into a static exhibitiontitled
Second skin: new knitting
at The Ivan Dougherty Gallery, Paddington, New South Wales, Australia, in January/February 2008. This thesisexamines knitting as a form of constructed textile in an historical and contemporary context and explores the integral relationship it has withfashion and textiles, as well as questioning the significance of interplay between
fashion
and
art
.The primary aim of this research is to explore contemporary knitwear designers working in the ‘high-fashion’ area of design and investigate howthey are challenging traditionally established rules and perceptions, and potentially blur the boundaries of what is considered fashion design, intoart. While conceptual fashion design has always been a debateable issue among fashion scholars as to whether it can be viewed as
fashion
,
anti- fashion
or
possibly art
, this thesis examines the influences of modernity and deconstruction in relation to knitting, to establish a conclusionregarding the contemporary position and understanding of knitting in society at present.Through gathering both primary and secondary research nationally and internationally, knitting has been examined in relation to the ways in whichcontemporary designers working in the realm of knitting are unravelling these traditionally based preconceptions, and analysing what they areaccomplishing through the use of mixed media applications, post-knitting treatments, yarn and stitch manipulation, and challenging sculptural formto create a new visual language through
artisanal production
.The body of work presented explores the concepts established in the written research relative to perception and deconstruction, and provokesquestions which challenge the notion of knitting as fashion, art or both. Through hand and machine knitting techniques,
Second skin: new knitting
examines body scarification in the form of tribal markings, which allows each pieces to transform into a
second skin
that convey interpretivenarratives and visual messages. The predominant medium utilised is 100% Australian wool and in conjunction, incorporates mixed mediamaterials such as silk organza and semi precious stones, and technological processes include laser cutting and etching of Tasmanian oak veneerand leather.
Declaration relating to disposition of project thesis/dissertation
I hereby grant to the University of New South Wales or its agents the right to archive and to make available my thesis or dissertation in whole or inpart in the University libraries in all forms of media, now or here after known, subject to the provisions of the Copyright Act 1968. I retain allproperty rights, such as patent rights. I also retain the right to use in future works (such as articles or books) all or part of this thesis or dissertation.I also authorise University Microfilms to use the 350 word abstract of my thesis in Dissertation Abstracts International (this is applicable to doctoraltheses only).……………………………………………………………Signature……………………………………..………………Witness……….……………………...…….…DateThe University recognises that there may be exceptional circumstances requiring restrictions on copying or conditions on use.Requests forrestriction for a period of up to 2 years must be made in writing. Requests for a longer period of restriction may be considered in exceptionalcircumstances and require the approval of the Dean of Graduate Research.
FOR OFFICE USE ONLY
Date of completion of requirements for Award:
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