Monday, July 5, 2010

Mollymawk is a nightwear label I have created, to fill a gap in sleepwear for women.

Inspiration:
I wanted to create a garment that was stylish, sexy, comfortable, and inspires.
Encompassing two of New Zealand's native, nocturnal birds, the kakapo and morepork, this 100% New Zealand made nightdress is a new twist on sleepwear.

Birds:
When I started thinking about the concept of the nightshirt I wanted to keep a nocturnal theme while encompassing NZ natives. This is why I have chosen the morepork and the kakapo, as I furthered my research into these birds, the more I fell in love with them, both species are fascinating. At the end of this blog I have listed some interesting facts. For an in depth look into the morepork and kakapo, please visit the links I have listed below.

Design:
I feel sexy generally comes from simplicity, the shape and simple curves incorporated in Mollymawk nightwear encompasses this.
Keeping it simple while flattering body shapes is what I have focused on.
I have made a nightshirt comfortable enough to sleep in, but also stylish enough to be seen in. For those extra casual days, you could spend most of your time in it. The optional inner bodice offers that extra bit of support, you can answer the door, or even whip down the shops while being safe to be seen.
I love all aspects of art and design; I have enjoyed refining the shape of this garment and feel it's very flattering for all shapes and sizes.
The style alludes to the classic black singlet, an ensemble that was iconic with kiwi culture.


Fabric:
I have chosen fabrics that are ideal for sleeping in, soft cotton and merino, offering warmth, breathability and comfort, they wash well, and are quick to dry. The fabric is made in Levin in New Zealand. I have placed importance on every aspect of this garment being made in NZ.


Screenprinting:
I really enjoy screenprinting; the process of developing the screens, and the art of print making. It has made a significant impact on my art in general. With painting, the size of a canvas plays an important role in the overall impact of the image.
I view printing on garments in the same way, how it sits on the fabric and the scale and size of the image you are printing onto.


Art:
I'll continue to be a practicing artist who exhibits. The art world is a funny esoteric place. Many people are not involved in the art scene, don't go to galleries or buy art for a number of reasons. I like the idea of my art being viewed and experienced by as many people as possible. By executing my creativity in this form you get to wear it, sleep in it, it becomes a part of your lifestyle, which really appeals to me.

www.mollymawk.co.nz