Iarlaith Fitzsimons
he/him
Built to Break
Masculinity and beauty- two expressions of a person's self, often considered antithetical, that, in fact, rarely exist without the other.
This installation explores the reality that neither what is beautiful nor masculine is independent, but that the two are synonymous in a person's self representation. In an exploration of textile, fabric, and structure, I explore the means of contemporary and historical enhancement of masculinity and beauty.
Boning was used to form the base of the body parts men have sought to enhance through fashion over time. The constructed boning and chosen fabrics were utilised to create patterns, with a number of pieces displaying bare boning, and chain.
This demonstration of interplay between strength and tenderness, prevalent in men's fashion, signifies the truth of their coexistence. Furthermore, the imagery of chains indicates how despite the beauty in masculine existence, men are continuously bound from expressing themselves.
Codpiece, the most masculine feature, the decoration being inspired by the crown jewels
Exaggerated shoulder piece, wrapped in chain to signify how we are bound by body standards
Cod and thigh piece displayed as boning referencing the construction we apply to our bodies
Thigh piece with a Tudor inspired masculine slashing technique