Joao Maraschin
Joao Maraschin was awarded with a residency at Thread through the the Art for the Environment programme, organised by the University of Arts London, from which he recently graduated as a fashion designer.
When asked how the pandemic has impacted him, Joao says:
I have definitely slowed down and postponed a few projects. It has allowed me time to mature some ideas and to respond to them with more substance. In light of social restrictions, I have had to work all by myself, alone in my studio, instead of in a collaborative manner. That has really been challenging, but vital, at the same time. On a personal note, I have become more and more aware of the value of time. I’m putting in effort to better balance my work and free time.
When Joao imagines the time he would have spent at Thread, had he attended last year, collaboration immediately comes to mind.
Perhaps I would have created some surface designs…from creative exchanges with the community and would have brought visual elements - encountered in the flora and fauna of Tambacounda - to my work. Most of all, I would have experienced life in a completely different place of in the world and that would have influenced my own creative process.
I always wanted to go to Senegal, but never before had the opportunity. When I eventually do go to Thread, I think it will broaden my vision in regards to community participation and mutual learning. And it will hopefully provide me with more experience in working with external collaborators.
Currently, Joao is busy producing his recently launched second collection. His third collection, coming out later this year, will symbolise the beginning of a journey: an investigative journey linking the histories of Brazil and Africa, while incorporating the Thread residency.
I intend to produce a piece of work that enhances the multiple identities of both places.
