Brief run through for my own sake! I have started writing up my research on the Nancy Pawsey's dress and have realised that I haven't been as thorough as I should have been in examining and writing up my study information. I suppose that is how one learns. I have missed some really obvious things. Why did I count the stitching on the 18th century bodice but not the 1840s bodice or even 1880s dress? Arghh! I despair at my self.
Whilst at the Museum of London, Hilary Davidson, who incidentally, is speaking at York University, CECS study day entitled, Desiring Fashion: The Consumption and Dissemination of Dress 1750-1850 this 23rd June, gave me a paper written by Jules David Prown to read It was published quite some time ago, 1982, but it has been very helpful in re-enforcing my methodological practise. The title of the paper is 'Mind in Matter: An Introduction to Material Culture Theory and Method' and is published in Winterthur Portfolio, Vol.17.
From reading this, I have realised that I am probably too biased in the examination of my garments. I take the garment out of the box with the anticipation and knowledge that it has been re-fashioned or altered. Therefore with a sense of urgency, I am expecting and wanting to see what I hope to be there. In my case, a major altering or customisation of the original garment.
The bibliography was most informative and I have highlighted various books to read. First on my list is a classic, Flugel, The Psychology of Clothes (1930).
I participated in a work shop on memory with Dr Jen Brockmeir which was fascinating and I need to read more on this subject. I might even join the 'Memory' reading group that another student is planning to set up. Dr Linda Sandino has given us all a reading list.
Lovely section of cotton lace from the petticoat of Nancy's the 1880s dress |
I'm with you there on Illustrator Matty. I tried to use it on my last project 'Street Haunting' and gave up. It just doesn't seem logical, to my mind. Illustrator is not easy - even my graphic design tutor agrees with this. So don't beat yourself up. Have a lovely Easter. Catch you soon. Tx
ReplyDeletep.s did your friend like the book, btw?