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Louisa Carmona

Louisa Carmona is a Swiss product and textile designer based in Brussels, Belgium. 

Her work spans material research, object design, and spatial exploration. After completing a Bachelor's degree in Industrial Design, she immersed herself in textile research, exploring ancient spinning and weaving techniques with craftspeople in Argentina and Benin. These experiences, combined with a Master’s in Textile Design have deeply influenced her approach to design, blending industry with craft. With a particular interest in textile finishing techniques, her work transforms textiles into interactive artifacts, focusing on the connections materials form and reflecting on the narratives embodied in objects, gestures, and spaces.

Crafting shine and stiffness

During this residency, Louisa delved into the traditional Miao and Dong fabric - “bright fabric,” beginning from exploring the diversity and uniqueness of textile finishing techniques. She reinterpreted bright fabric, opening pathways for balancing preservation and innovation within traditional craftsmanship.

 

To further explore the bright fabric, Louisa conducted a research trip in the Miao and Dong ethnic groups of Guizhou during her residency. During this process, she not only systematically studied the production techniques of bright fabric but also delved into its material matuality and practical applications. This experience sparked her creative inspiration, encouraging her to approach her work from the perspective of materiality and functionality. Moreover, the vibrant cultural heritage of Guizhou’s ethnic minorities deeply captivated her, prompting reflections on the connections between techniques across regions and eras. These observations and insights will shape the direction of her ongoing research.

【Pleating Wings 】

Inspired by the finishing process of "bright fabric", Louisa explored the material's transformation from soft cotton to a stiffness akin to cardboard. Drawing from this concept, she selected a firm piece of bright fabric to design two fans. Through minimalist forms, the fans directly examine the volume and rigidity of the "bright fabric." The design draws inspiration from the pleating and knotting techniques observed in skirts at the Kaili market, with sharp angles and smooth curves complementing each other against the vibrant red sheen of the fabric.

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【Coquille 】

The bright fabric boasts wind-resistant properties and, when expertly crafted, also offers a function of water repellence. Leveraging this material maturity, Louisa designed minimalist, functional, and highly protective headwear from a utilitarian perspective. The designs named "Coquille" inspired by the egg-white coating of the fabric, symbolizing the protective nature of an eggshell. The hat's pattern aligns precisely with the original fabric width, reflecting careful consideration of the intricate production process. To honor the value of this exceptional material, the design adheres to a zero-waste principle, ensuring no fabric is wasted during creation.

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【Glossy and Matte】

The traditional production method of bright fabric involves evenly coating the entire piece of fabric with egg white, typically using Dong fabric as the base. In this work, Louisa innovatively applies selective coating, combining traditional techniques with industrial fabrics. By utilizing the contrast between glossy and matte finishes, she transforms the fabric's form and texture, successfully creating unique pleating effects.

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