Tracy Cui

My thesis is inspired by a non-fiction book called Into the Wild by Jon Krakauer that tells the story of Christopher McCandless, a young man who left his privileged life behind to live in the wilderness of Alaska. Intrigued by McCandless's story, I decided to embark on my own journey to Alaska to gain a greater understanding of myself and my place in the world. During my time in the wilderness, I was struck by the beauty and serenity of the natural environment. "Into the Wild" represents a journey of self-discovery, creativity, and exploration,  as well as drawing inspiration from the natural world and the stories of those seeking to find their own way in it. Using natural materials, textured fabrics, and a bold and daring aesthetic, this collection invites us to embrace our vulnerability and the unknown, to forge our paths, and to create something beautiful out of the chaos of life.

The use of both natural fibers and synthetic materials in this collection reflects the idea of balance and the delicate relationship between humans and nature, which was also a central theme in Christopher McCandless's story. McCandless sought to live a simple and minimalist lifestyle, one that was in harmony with the natural world around him. He believed that modern society had become too dependent on technology and material possessions, and he sought to live a life that was more in tune with nature. In the same way, this collection seeks to find a balance between the organic and the artificial, using both natural and synthetic materials to create garments that are both durable and aesthetically pleasing. The knitwear pieces, for example, are made from a blend of cotton yarn and nylon, which creates a texture that is both soft and strong, much like the rugged landscape that inspired them. The linen and paper yarn used in other pieces also reflect this delicate balance, with the natural fibers of the linen combined with the synthetic fibers of the paper yarn to create a unique and unexpected texture. Like Christopher McCandless, this collection embraces the idea of living in harmony with the natural world, while also recognizing the realities of modern life and the need for durability and functionality. By using both natural and synthetic materials, this collection represents a modern take on traditional knitting techniques, one that is both innovative and sustainable.