AD Transcript: Jasmine Goon, PDT, Textiles

Utility Jumpsuit for Fine Artists is a VCE Product Design and Technology Textiles student work by Jasmine Goon from Ballarat High School, Ballarat, Wadawurrung Country.

A full length jumpsuit in earthy beige, tan and brown tones, incorporating functional pockets and utility belts for brushes, pens, pencils and other artistic tools, along with an integrated top with collar and long sleeves, has been made from 100 per cent reused cotton corduroy and denim jeans, elastic, satin, zips and press studs. On first glance one might assume the suit is comprised of two pieces- a pair of overalls with a top underneath and on closer inspection one can see zip lines along the elbows and knees where when undone can transform the garment into a short-sleeved, knee-length jumpsuit for warmer days.

The utility jumpsuit was created to address fine artists’ need for practical and convenient storage. Designed to redefine a conventional art apron, this unique garment has biodegradable full-body coverage that safeguards the user from mess. With strategic arm, torso and leg pocket placements effective material accessibility is supported whilst eliminating desk clutter. Contrasting colours easily identify material stains and aesthetically complement with wearable art to promote artistic expression.

The upper half of the jumpsuit has a tan-coloured pointed collar, with brown front and olive green corduroy overall straps that buckle onto silver buttons beneath.

On the front panel of the jumpsuit, on chest is a small notebook-sized pocket and below that spanning the waist is where a fixed utility belt sits with 12 narrow compartments where brushes, pens, and pencils can be contained. The size of the waist can be adjusted with sliding straps that secure on velcroe.

The sleeves are made of brown corduroy with large, beige pockets on the upper arm and another row of narrow compartments on the lower arm.

The lower half of the jumpsuit from waist to knee is brown corduroy, that has large, zipped pockets, one on each thigh and at back has an oval shaped denim pocket on right hand side.

The pant legs from knee to ankle are wide and made up of chequered patchwork in olive and tan squares.

A long centre zipper on back indicates how the wearer would enter into this rich-textured jumpsuit.

A garment of practicality it is easy to imagine an artist at home, in a studio or out in the world creating, flourishing a brush from their utility belt, a tape measure from an arm or thigh pocket or a small sketch pad from panel front…the artist at work.