Chippewa Valley Times

In front of a captivated audience of more than 750 attendees, the UW-Stout 3D Design first-year students recently showcased their creative talents at the sold-out Fashion Without Fabric runway show. The event, held on April 6, featured 117 student design teams presenting their sculptured costume designs based on this year’s theme of Philias and Phobias.

The students' designs delved into the realms of fears and obsessions, from the love of the color yellow to the fear of purple, showcasing the intricate relationship between passion and dread. Makayla Durango, Jolene Larrabee, and Leah Schrader presented 'Don't Judge a Bird by Its Feathers,' exploring ornithophobia/philia, while Mack Champion, Mara Glover, and Becca Lindell depicted 'To Love or to Hide,' focusing on photophobia/philia. Keenan Chalmers, Aidan Mooney, and Haylee Mottl showcased 'Do Not Fear the Rest,' revolving around coimetrophobia.

The event not only displayed the students' creativity but also conveyed a message of hope and courage in facing fears with grace and dignity. Chancellor Katherine Frank, senior writer Steve Marsh, and assistant professor Molly Uravitch served as judges, evaluating the designs based on concept, creativity, and craft.

Among the remarkable designs, Erika Rivolta and Manuela von Zitzewitz's creation, “Love of Books,” won them $1,000 scholarships for their interpretation of bibliophobia/philia. Their design, adorned with miniature books and red wings, symbolized the beauty and boundless imagination found in books.

In another standout display, Klaire Johnson and Emma Walstra's 'The Prime Divine' emerged victorious, exploring triskaidekaphobia. Their design, inspired by the number 13 representing rebirth and transformation, featured phoenix-like wings and intricate details incorporating clusters of 13.

Reflecting on their experience, Johnson and Walstra shared, “Every aspect of ‘The Prime Divine’ had some kind of purpose. It was definitely fun seeing the other groups get creative with the materials they used and understand how their designs came to be.”

The Fashion Without Fabric event at UW-Stout's Spring Showcase highlighted the students' dedication, creativity, and innovation, culminating in a spectacular display of artistry and craftsmanship.