MEZZANINE RESIDENCY: LAURS KEMP
September 19th - October 27th, 2024
Opening Reception | Thursday, September 19th, 5-8pm
Explore the upcycling design practice of Portland rework designer, Laurs Kemp, in an interactive residency on the mezzanine at Frances May.
This residency showcases Laurs Kemp’s practice and invites viewers to participate in the creative act of upcycling with a workshop series, garments for purchase, a rework menu, and opportunities to donate garments for future upcycling.
Mezzanine Studio Hours | Friday-Sunday 12-5pm
“ I have a confession to make: I’m more of an editor than a designer. I have an aversion to factory settings, so the inherent limits of using pre-existing garments provide the catalyst for most of my designs. Thrifted garments and found materials present a framework from which I can then disassemble, embellish or recontextualize. The changes can be as subtle as updating the buttons on a trench coat or as elaborate as constructing a camisole entirely from vintage leather gloves. My intention is to constantly experiment and collect these ideas into a glossary of rework techniques that others can use. I document each project and publish tutorial videos so viewers can rework pieces in their wardrobe right along with me. For folks seeking a more tactile and collaborative approach, I offer in-person sewing workshops and drop-off rework services to refresh items already in your closet. Upcycling is an open-ended process that allows you to not only personalize your wardrobe, but to see the potential in the familiar items around you. “
-Laurs Kemp
UPCYCLE WORKSHOP SERIES
Join Laurs Kemp for a rework sewing workshop during her residency at Frances May.
Learn to upcycle a button-up with an arched hem or a glove appliqué top.
Saturday, September 28, 2024 2PM - 4:30PM:
Arch Button-Up Rework
Saturday, October 5th, 2024 2PM - 4:30PM:
Glove Appliqué
Saturday, October 12th, 2024 2PM - 4:30PM:
Arch Button-Up Rework
Saturday, October 19, 2024 2PM - 4:30PM:
Glove Appliqué
