Justice Burnes Illustration Thesis Spring 2020
The vision of this project is to create a line of apparel to express the normalization of change in mental health and identity. Through imagery centered around eggs and cooking, I explore my thoughts brought on by depression and anxiety in an easily digestible way to connect with my audience. Eggs are seen as fragile and quick to crack under pressure, but are surprisingly resilient when given the right circumstances; these qualities are easy to associate with depression. Cooking has been an important tool in taking care of my mental and physical health. It serves as a great outlet and metaphor for taking care of oneself; it’s a chance to slow down and be mindful of the nutrients you’re putting in your body, and can take your mind away from negative thoughts. One of the goals of this project is to repurpose thoughts, feelings, and energy in a way that builds a future for myself and others. Using a mix of new and recycled clothing, I am creating a unique collection of wearables to communicate that change is inevitable, but healthy. The end goal of this project is to create a brand that exists to build community and engage with my audience through a collection of wearables and installation pop up shops, amplifying voices that may not be heard.