Iris Dean Blackwood, a fiber artist who focuses on textile and garment application, sits down to discuss her senior fashion collection at SCAD and everything from sustainability to finding fulfillment in her work. Originally a fashion management and marketing major, Blackwood switched her major to fibers after studying abroad in Hong Kong. Her goal is to move to Amsterdam and work for either an industrial knitwear company or for material-based independent artists. You can check out more of her work on Instagram, @irisdeanblackwood.
Take us through the process of creating a senior collection. How has your experience been thus far?
I: This whole project concept was born out of a monetary necessity and convenience of materials. It kind of blossomed into a pursuit of eco-conscious creation, material collaboration, and personal identity, which wasn’t intentional in the beginning. This ‘designing out of necessity’ is what allowed for creative breakthroughs for me. The obstacles and challenges lead to adaptation, and that’s what paves the way for inventive creation. So although it wasn’t my intention, I think that the outcome of his project couldn’t have happened without a terrible situation like this [the COVID-19 pandemic]. Although it’s been hard on all of us, I’ve seen so many people excelling in this weird, restrictive environment.
Looking at your recent work on Instagram, it’s apparent you have an interest in sustainability. Do you plan on continuing to upcycle and work with sustainable materials throughout your career?
I: This concept of what happens to a product at the end of its shelf life is something I’ve been pondering a lot lately. I think it’s important to investigate how fashion and design communities can make their approach to reuse, repurpose, and recycle more expansive. Hopefully influence how that is integrated into design communities that have such a large consumer base. We can eliminate mountains and mountains of deadstock fabrics and things growing in landfills if communities like these integrated these concepts.
Is there a piece in your collection you’re most fond of?
I: A lot of times, with these unconventional materials, it’s so interesting because it’s like something emerging from a chrysalis. It’s this idea of allowing a third-party collaborator to govern the design. And I just let the materials to work. One of my favorites is probably the gray, silk, angular dress because I love working with sculptural and angular design.
Thinking back to freshman year, what were you most excited about doing at SCAD?
I: I think I was most excited about being surrounded by like-minded people who evoke creative energy and uniqueness. It’s inspiring to be surrounded by creatives who are all different and unique in their own way. Seeing people being so secure and individualistic in themselves is incredible.
How has SCAD prepared you for the future?
I: I think I’m going to say the study abroad programs. I also think the way they give you the safety you need to “adult” on your own. Little by little, being introduced to different cultures, I feel very prepared to get up and leave. The international locations have allowed for that. I feel like I’m ready to go. And I don’t think I would be able to do that without these opportunities.
What would you tell your freshman year self?
I: Not everyone is going to like your work and aesthetic, and that’s okay. That’s why there’s a whole spectrum of art and design. Everyone has a different viewpoint and different interests and aesthetics. You should never be changing the integrity of your work. Always stay true to your own aesthetic, your own design, and what brings you happiness within art.
Special thanks to Iris Dean Blackwood, the designer.
Interview by Isabella St. Clair.
Graphic by Emily Monet.
Photography by Mallory Idoni.
Modeling by Emma Calverley.
Styling by Camy Lindsey.