Artist Biography
Cali McDonald's journey in the world of fashion and textile design is rooted in her upbringing in York, ME, where her passion for creativity was nurtured. She honed her skills and knowledge at the Maine College of Art and Design (MECA&D), where she obtained her Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) degree in Textile and Fashion in May of 2022.
During her time at MECA&D, McDonald not only focused on her studies but also contributed as a teacher's assistant for the Introduction to Fashion and Apparel course, showcasing her commitment to both learning and teaching within her field.
Her talent and dedication were further recognized through her participation in MECA&D's Merit Scholarship Competition in 2021, where her work stood out and earned her recognition for best 3-D work by a junior student.
In addition to her academic pursuits, McDonald gained practical experience through various roles, including working in a women's clothing boutique, completing an internship at the Yarn Sellar in her hometown of York, ME, and serving as an upcycled seamstress, designer, and screenprinter at The Drift Collective in Portsmouth, NH.
McDonald's dedication to her craft is evident in her creations, which encompass garments and accessories that reflect her unique artistic vision. Her talent was recently celebrated when she earned the Audience Choice Award at the 2023 Project Upcycle - New England Streetwear event, further solidifying her place as a rising designer in the fashion and textile design industry.
Artist Statement
My approach to fashion and textile design is both innovative and environmentally conscious, blending my love for 1960s fashion and home decor with sustainable practices to craft vibrant, one-of-a-kind designs. Through creative processes of crocheting, machine knitting, and sewing, I breathe new life into old garments, embodying my commitment to upcycling and eco-friendly fashion.
Techniques involved in my work include repurposing old and unwanted clothing through methods like color blocking, patchwork, and repair, transforming them into fresh, contemporary pieces with a youthful flair. My designs feature a diverse range of materials, including natural fibers like cotton, bamboo, mohair, and wool, as well as personal and thrifted fabrics such as cotton, linen, polyester, and blends.
Inspired by earth tones and pastel colors reminiscent of the 1960s aesthetic, the palette of my designs includes shades like sky blue, teal, sage green, olive green, baby pink, lavender, soft yellow, and rust orange. These colors infuse my creations with a playful yet serene quality, reflecting my unique design sensibility.
In terms of garment styles, I favor comfortable and modern silhouettes such as cropped crewneck sweatshirts, wide-leg pants, and mock-necks, tailored to suit the tastes of the contemporary wearer. Alongside clothing, I also craft whimsical accessories like tote bags and crocheted earrings, adding a touch of fun and individuality to my collections.
Overall, my work stands at the intersection of creativity, sustainability, and style, offering fashion enthusiasts an opportunity to express themselves while making environmentally conscious choices. Through my innovative designs and dedication to eco-friendly practices, I am working towards reshaping the landscape of fashion with a refreshing approach.