Filigree

Background The PhD research undertaken by Denise Sprynskyj and Peter Boyd examined the respective roles that the concepts of surface and space play in the fashion design practice of S!X. The concept of surface includes that of both the exterior piece of cloth and the interior surfaces of the space of the practice, two surfaces in which the body is situated. That of space includes the uncertain threshold between the atelier and public space, as well as the collaborative space between the two designers, and between the designers and other collaborators. Contribution The work shown in the event translated newsprint, text, and stencils that form the décor of the walls of the design space 'la chambre de bonne' onto the surface of garments, which were then shown on models within the same space. S!X's work was paired with selected and curated work by graduate Yori Paramintha, with no indication of respective authorship. The show exited this private space onto the public street and through Pellegrini's café, serving as both an invitational event and free public entertainment. The event investigated the shifting relationship of the body, including the body of work, to the surfaces that house it and the physical and intellectual spaces in which it is at home. Significance The event was accepted as part of the Virgin Australia Melbourne Fashion Festival cultural program, the premier fashion art and cultural event in Australia.