Nicole Norman
Heavy Currents
Heavy Currents is an editorial collaboration featuring waterproof garments inspired by the fatigue of workers by the sea.
Photography by Josh Croll.
Art Direction By Tom Ive.
Fisherman Coat in Boiled Wool and Ventile.
Twisted Pleat Trouser in Ventile.
Clay Smock in Organic Cotton Dry Oilskin.
Waterproof Cotton Jumpsuit.
Portfolio
My concept consists of using the posture of pious people in attempt to show the physicality of religion through cut and silhouette containing praying positions, rituals and holy iconography. To convey the personal anguish of individuals within sacred spaces, I used symbols of genuflection and flagellation by incorporating kneeling and bowing stances that create bends in the body. Controlling the fabric around the joints allowed for both draped and fitted areas that mimic figures praying. This is intended to show the solemn nature of worshippers when seeking redemption.
Monastic rules of chastity mean that the body has to remain concealed. However, this collection highlights the absence of layers and reveals glimpses of flesh. The styles lean towards more modern standards of dressing with elements of sportswear that are used in conjunction with ecclesiastical vestments. The garments acknowledge the rules of the church whilst dismantling its roles and limitations.