Mayor of Devonport ‘Behind the Curtain’ Award $500
Bedford, Darryl (UK) Alchemy
ABOUT THE PIECE
Alchemy is a kirigami dress inspired by single celled organisms - nature’s true alchemists. Transformation is at the core of Darryl’s design philosophy. This work reflects the inspiration of the alchemical process and the scientific illustrations of Ernst Haeckel.
“I don't approach design from a fashion perspective, but rather through the lens of body architecture. My work employs principles of balance, tension, and counterbalance within intricate kirigami structures to achieve dynamic transformations. Initially, my designs were small geometric forms that were transformed through touch. This concept is scaled up in my dresses, where body movement creates surprising, articulated shapes.
Exploring paper as a fabric, I've assembled a variety of original origami-inspired designs to demonstrate the material's versatility. I've also developed an ‘anamorphic’ surface treatment, using a checkered pattern that shifts colour with movement and perspective.”
Kirigami is the art of cutting and folding paper. Darryl’s work utilises hundreds of thousands of cuts to create tiny surface hinges, transforming paper into a flexible material.
MATERIALS
Elephant hide, crepe and, kozo paper. Embroidery thread.
ABOUT THE ARTIST
Born in Perth, Australia, and now based in London. Darryl is a teacher, Apple Distinguished Educator, trauma-informed practitioner, and paper engineer. His passion for paper extends beyond aesthetics; he believes in its therapeutic potential, using it to connect individuals with the natural world and promote well-being.The original technique Darryl has developed is called ‘drawstring origami.’
Inspired by the microscopic beauty of radiolarians, Darryl creates sculptures that are both visually stunning and tactile. His work has been showcased internationally, from Australia to the United States.
His artistic pursuits have culminated in notable achievements, including a featured appearance on BBC TV's "Kirstie's Handmade Christmas." His recent projects have showcased his versatility, from a successful fashion runway to a highly acclaimed lighting exhibit at Milan's prestigious Salone del Mobile. Additionally, he has presented a plenary talk at the 8th International Meeting on Origami in Science, Mathematics, and Education (8OSME) at Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne, Australia.
Beyond fine art, Darryl's creations have practical applications. He's collaborated with architects, engineers, and soft robotics labs to explore the structural properties of his paper designs for potential real-world uses.
As a champion of paper as a therapeutic tool, Darryl has developed paper therapy toys and is sharing his knowledge with students around the world.