The Weight Of Textile Story

Designer: Sheng Qiu

Inspired by Milan Kundera's novel "The Unbearable Lightness of Being," Sheng Qiu's textile design collection, "The Weight Of Textile Story," challenges the notion of throwawayism. The designer aims to offer aesthetically pleasing and luxury durable products that encourage people to think more deeply about the social value of textiles and their impact on our lives.

Using a combination of digital and hand-drawn techniques, Sheng Qiu creates contemporary designs that are visually striking and versatile. The vivid colors and intricate patterns are carefully crafted to evoke emotions and inspire introspection. The collection consists of six looks for both men and women, ensuring a wide range of options for fashion enthusiasts.

The realization of the designs involves a meticulous process. The initial designs are hand-painted using watercolors on canvas, capturing the essence of the concept. These paintings are then scanned and imported into a computer, where Sheng Qiu further refines the designs using a digital pen and Adobe Illustrator. The final designs are digitally printed on composite polyester fabrics, known for their durability and versatility.

What sets "The Weight Of Textile Story" apart is its ability to be used in various ways. The garments are designed to be worn in different styles, allowing the prints to be showcased effectively. Additionally, the design can be modified and scaled according to the size or item it will be used on, making it suitable for fashion, upholstery, and outdoor applications.

The project, which started in January 2018 in Hong Kong, was completed in June 2018. Throughout the design process, Sheng Qiu conducted extensive research on Surrealism art, Fauvism, and the science of color. Various fabric tests were conducted, exploring different textile bases such as silk, metallic fabric, and polyester. After numerous pattern experiments and color variations, the ideal final result was chosen.

Despite the challenges of translating the inspiration from a novel into visual work, Sheng Qiu successfully created a collection that sparks inner thoughts and feelings. The unique combination of digital and hand-drawn techniques, vibrant colors, and thought-provoking designs make "The Weight Of Textile Story" a standout in the world of textile design.

The Weight Of Textile Story was awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in the Textile, Fabric, Textures, Patterns, and Cloth Design category in 2019. This prestigious award recognizes designs that demonstrate creativity, resourcefulness, and a commitment to improving the quality of life. Sheng Qiu's collection embodies these qualities, making it a deserving recipient of this accolade.