Haocheng Zhang (Glunge) is from China and is studying menswear design at RCA. He has a strong spatial imagination, making him highly skilled in pattern-making. He is also enthusiastic about exploring different fabrics and experimenting with their combinations. His design inspiration comes from his own experiences and those of the people around him.
Haocheng Zhang
My aunt became a nun at the age of 15 and dedicated her entire life to the church. Her daily work is closely related to Catholic services and missions, and she strictly adheres to religious laws and vows.
In recent years, she has been working in her office, making robes for priests to wear during Mass. These robes have simple styles, but the embroidery on them are cultural symbols taken from the Bible and other scriptures, such as wine representing the blood of Jesus, bread representing the Eucharist, and crosses.
Hand embroidery takes too much time for me, so I used 3D printing materials as a substitute. After making some unsatisfactory samples, I improved the modelling and printing methods. The result is a relief-like effect printed on the bottom layer and then stitched between two layers of fabric.
Inspired by her way of life, I want to create a collection of religious-style garments, with 3D-printed religious symbols sewn in certain positions on them. They can be covered by zippers and folds or revealed through specific movements of the clothing. I have made multiple attempts during the pattern-making and tailoring process.
The experiences and life situations of the people around me are the sources of inspiration for my creation. I will continue to work on this collection after the EXOPO ends.
textile swatches
In Collaboration with:
Materials and technical support