In a performance, the costume is not merely clothing; it is an integral part of the artistic statement. It interacts with the body and space, influencing the perception of movement, and can alter its form, function, and meaning throughout the action. Through silhouette, scale, proportion, and texture, the costume helps to articulate the performance’s idea and create a compelling image. In this course, participants explore the costume’s potential as an artistic instrument and learn to design it not just as a static object, but as an element of action capable of existing in various states and transforming over time.

Participants will journey from visual research and image-finding to developing a bespoke costume for a performance. They will master artistic methods for working with associations, form, scale, proportions, and textures, and learn how to create textile concepts and design costume transformation during the act. As a result, each participant will develop their own project: a sketch of one costume in three states, or a series of sketches for three costumes for a single performance.

— Performers and dancers interested in exploring the possibilities of costume in motion and making it a part of a artistic statement.
— Fashion designers looking to transition into the realm of theatrical costume.
— Students from creative majors interested in creating original costumes for performance.Experience in fashion design or artistic practices is an advantage, but mandatory proficiency in pattern making and sewing is not required for the program.

— Develop the visual concept for the costume based on the performance idea;
— Conduct visual research and utilize artistic methods to discover the image;
— Design the form, scale, and proportions of the costume, considering its interaction with the body;
— Select textures and develop textile solutions;
— Create scenarios for costume transformation and design multiple states of the image;

Throughout the course, participants will create an association map and visual study, a series of sketches, a textile concept, and a costume transformation scenario. The final outcome will be an original costume design for a performance—either a sketch of one costume in three states or a series of sketches featuring three different costumes for a single piece. The project will be presented during the final critique and evaluated based on the integrity of the artistic concept, the rationale behind the visual decisions, and the thoroughness of the preparation for implementation.