MECAmorphosis!

Maine College of Art’s third annual Fashion Show on First Friday was a spectacular feast of fiber and fun.

An eager crowd filled the ICA Gallery, where Vice President of Academic Affairs and Dean of the College Ian Anderson made the rounds with his partner, Kari Radasch.

President Don Tuski opened with thank yous, especially for event maestro Erin Hutton, who “can build a rocket and launch it.” Chair of the Textile and Fashion Design Department, Anne Emlein, talked about the emphasis on traditional hand processes.

I was super excited to see Illustration student Catherine Bates open the parade modeling Petrified Wood Circle by Emily Koerner.

Our own Daisy modeled an adorable dress by Anna Morse.

Groups of models were separated by icon bearers, including a sweet mother/daughter pair.

We had great seats, but not the best camera. I later made sketches of my favorites. Loved this drapey red coat with a strappy back.

The backs are often as fetching as the fronts!

I was eager to see junior TFD major, Allison Bonin’s pieces. During her junior review in March, she shared her work-in-progress for one of her Petal Parade pieces.

Model Joanna Zeitlin had fun flouncing in Allison’s English Daisy Dress.

I learned these pants were inspired by the moons of Jupiter during Emily Koerner’s junior review. Far out!

Dancing models embodied the playful spirit of the clothing.

This one has to be seen to be believed! Created by Eden McDowell for her mother, Sarah Dove, A Portrait of Sarah was a huge hit.

I loved this loopy tunic, also by Kelsey Haley, titled Verwachsen.

Hacer by Kelsey Haley is a swingy mash-up to behold, with Gaelle Robin in command.

Felt circles flutter here like a million lunar eclipses, also by Kelsey Haley.

Eden McDowell wore Kelsey Haley’s spectacular Terre in a finale of crazy fiber.

Modeling coach Ronnie Allen Jr. led the shimmy line dance to end the show.

Marty and I headed for the After Party.

How gratifying to see the MECA cafe become a dance mob!

Congratulations to MECA’s Textile and Fashion Designers!

The BFA Thesis Exhibition 2015, Aggregate: A Playful Combine is now on display on three floors of MECA at 522 Congress Street. More on that and our proud illustration seniors in my next post!