Royal College of Art
Graduates: 2024
Specialisms: Sustainable Fashion/Textiles / Textile Innovation/Textile Art / Denim
My location: London, United Kingdom
First Name: Ruwanthi
Last Name: Gajadeera
University / College: Royal College of Art
Course / Program: Fashion Design MA
Graduates: 2024
Specialisms: Sustainable Fashion/Textiles / Textile Innovation/Textile Art / Denim
My Location: London, United Kingdom
The catastrophic aftermath of the X-Press Pearl disaster, which wrought ecological devastation and caused the loss of innumerable marine lives, including those of endangered species such as turtles, dolphins, and whales, stirred a deep sense of empathy within me. Regrettably, despite being one of the most prominent instances of ocean pollution in history, appear to have been overlooked and forgotten. This heartrending event catalyzed my creation of "Resurgence". This collection is more than just visually striking but also serves as a medium to heighten awareness about the imperative need to safeguard our oceans. By utilizing discarded denim and textile waste, my designs convey a powerful message that fashion can be a force for good, positively impacting the planet. With every piece in the collection, I strive to pay tribute to the innocent lives lost and to motivate a more conscientious approach to fashion, one that values sustainability and the preservation of our precious ecosystem. "Resurgence," epitomizes the principles of circular design thinking, leveraging eco-friendly materials and low-impactmanufacturing techniques to minimize my environmental footprint. Drawing inspiration from handloom denim, I infused it with recycled yarn from various sources, including textile mills,secondhand stores, and personal networks, giving discarded textiles a second chance at life. Each piece showcases my commitment to sustainability, with intricate weaving andstitching techniques that reject my eco-consciousoutlook. For example, my Dumbara coat incorporates scraps to create a textured background, while the turtle motif highlights the rejuvenation of old thread, embodying a stirring tale of sustainability. I utilized upcycling and revitalizationtechniques to minimize waste and reduce the need for virgin resources, making each piece unique and environmentally friendly. My high-waisted skirt is a prime example, using repurposed denim jackets and handloom denim patches for a bold yet sustainable look. Overall, "Resurgence" serves as a powerful testament to the transformative power of sustainable fashion, urging others to adopt a circular design mindset and join me on a journey toward a more radiant, eco-conscious future.