school of life

My starting point for this project was the symbolism of the tiger in eastern cultures, and specifically its meaning in the Chinese martial art of Kung Fu. 
Examining the difference between western educational systems with those of eastern martial arts practices, I wondered upon the values each philosophy offers children and what kind of tools they are given preparing them to deal with different situations throughout their lives.  
The collection was inspired by traditional Kung Fu garments both stylistically and material wise. I used 100% cotton fabric which I processed in delicate hand wash, focused on natural fabric colors and used silk screen printing to play with the idea of tension between hard and soft, movement and stiffness. It was important for me that the collection would be highly practical for a child to wear, making sure that the garment allows for a diverse and wide range of movement, that it would be durable. The design also stimulates values like courage, energy and determination, values that can inspire a child in play and in life.