Soulvurn

• Main Author: Tan, Sherneese
• Other Authors: Christoph Hahnheiser
• Format: Final Year Project
• Language: English
• Published: Nanyang Technological University 2022
• Subjects: Visual arts and music::Design
• Online Access: https://hdl.handle.net/10356/158666
• Institution: Nanyang Technological University

Soulvurn is an experimental, conceptual installation and social exploration into the commercialisation of humans; our individual thought. The title is a blend of soul and urn, coined to represent the transient journey of traversing the intricacies of what makes up the human soul. Living in such a fast- paced society, we often go about our daily lives unchecked and may even take things for granted. Applying this notion to the fashion industry, we produce and consume fashion in a mindless manner, constantly on the lookout for the next trendy item, and once we secure it, we are back on the lookout for the next. With this, the former gets tossed out; forgotten. This cyclical, endless pursuit of the next ultimately desensitises our perception of value. How can we then adopt a lifestyle that is more meaningful and intentional? By assuming an alternate society where we live in deliberation, this project aims to deconstruct social norms through fashion. Through the symbolic representation of a character, she uses the medium of deconstructed fashion to break down societal expectations, gain agency and achieve self-actualisation. Her process is showcased through a choreography in a concept film and deconstructed garments that symbolise specific stages of her autonomy- driven process. This project thus serves to shed light on the lack of intentional living observed in today's society as well as an inspiration for us to inculcate a life filled with choices that are more conscientious and meaningful.