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Transparency, as used in science, engineering, business, the humanities and in other social contexts, implies openness, communication, and accountability. Transparency is operating in such a way that it is easy for others to see what actions are performed.
When I approached the artist's journey, I wanted to create a canvas for myself, unique to me, that not only honored a heritage of craftsmanship that I married into, but expressed my love of fashion. So, my all-acrylic clutch was born. As I researched the marketplace at the time, there wasn't anyone creating acrylic clutch handbags entirely by hand—all of them had a metal hinge, and most of them weren't manufactured in America.
Before any couture finish is applied, every clutch of mine begins as a transparent skeleton—hardware free. It's my signature that celebrates my family's 47-year heritage in craftsmanship. With no place to hide less-than superior workmanship, this clear frameless design is my promise to remain transparent in my art's commitment to couture.
making of
I was commissioned in 2016 to design a clutch for the Grammys. Inspired by the expressive brushstrokes of Beethoven's music, it features 24-karat gold leaf in the shape of the Grammy's gammaphone trophy and hand painted in black and silver. It was worn on the red carpet by Stephanie Longo and Giselle Grant.
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01 — Last Dance acrylic clutch
02 — Giselle and Jono Grant at the Grammys 2016
03 — Ludwig van Beethoven's handwriting
04 — Applying 24-karat gold leaf
05 — Stephanie Longo at the Grammys 2016
06 — Hand painting the Last Dance acrylic clutch
Photo from: michelleogundehin.com/trends-modern-oriental. Modern Oriental. Styling: Hannah Bort. Photography: Paul Raeside. Featured in the November issue of Elle Decoration UK.
Photo from: www.themakerista.com/turn-inspiration-design