In the late 1960's and early 1970's the social and political climate of the time resulted in the need for personal freedom and the rejection of mainstream culture. Personal adornment was one of the reactions to this movement and out of it “Wearable Art” was born. It attracted weavers, knitters, quilters, painters, costumers, dyers and many others who were interested in exploring with fibers.

In the beginning “Art to Wear” was made for the individual, was traded with other artists, or made for performances or exhibitions. It did not take long for a following to emerge that had an interest to purchase and collect these unique garments.

Wearable Art is an art form of its own, having no set boundaries or rules. It crosses into other disciplines, while weaving in and out. Its origins have been influenced by the Far East with many garments taking their styling from the kimono. Right from the beginning the fashion world took note and was inspired.

Today, wearable art and fashion influence each other, yet remain independent of the other. A fashion designer directs a vision to a team, who then executes that vision. They are very much in tune with trends, producing as many as a hundred pieces per season.

The “Art to Wear” artist usually works solo or may collaborate with one or more artists, assuming complete control from concept to completion. Their work is either one-of-a-kind or produced in very small limited editions. Some may only create a few pieces each year with many pieces taking weeks, months or years to complete. They are not concerned with trends, but with creative freedom, craftsmanship and exploring possibilities.

Although Marie and Josette are influenced by fashion, they are not dictated by it. Their line of jackets and shawls allow the owner to see their piece evolve, making it more personal, demanding to be worn, displayed and appreciated for years to come. Each piece contains a personal image of both artists, but it is the client that gives it a life force of its own. For this reason no two pieces are ever alike as they become as individual as the wearer, possessing a life and fashion of their own.

For more information on Wearable Art:

Aimone, Katherine Duncan. The Fiberarts Book of Wearable Art. Asheville, NC: Lark Books. 2003.
Leveton, Melissa. Artwear, Fashion and Anti-Fashion. New York, NY: Thames & Hudson. 2005
Schafler, Julie Dale. Art to Wear. New York, NY: Cross River Press Ltd. 1984
Maltony, Donna. If The Art Fits, Wear It.... Saluda, NC. 1995

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