Monachopsis: A Chaos Story of Complex Creativity
Chase Duval-Champagne possesses a bachelor’s degree in fashion merchandising and marketing, with a concentration in design, alongside a master’s degree in fashion design, complemented by a foundation as a classically trained artist. Their professional path has granted them the privilege of living in vibrant cultural centers, such as Boston, Massachusetts; Paris, France; and San Francisco, California, as well as various locations across New Hampshire, embodying a modern nomadic lifestyle that enriches their artistic perspective.
Recognized as the “Mad Artperson of Fashion,” Duval-Champagne actively engages in various artistic pursuits, including photography, poetry, painting, drawing, interior design and restoration, landscaping, and floral arrangements. This extensive artistic background is intricately interwoven with their diverse experiences, enabling them to embrace many opportunities and roles that foster their professional development and enhance their capacity for creative expression.
Duval-Champagne’s thesis collection is a thoughtful exploration of the intersection between fashion, art, and neurodiversity. It captures the nuanced journey of a neurodivergent individual navigating the complexities of anxiety within the creative landscape. Each piece is meticulously crafted to convey a compelling narrative, skillfully merging visual appeal with profound emotional resonance. This collection invites viewers to engage thoughtfully with the intricacies of creativity and the emotional challenges disproportionately experienced by those with neurodivergent conditions.
In an era where the fashion industry increasingly prioritizes capitalistic models, there is a notable decline in the emphasis on the artistry integral to its creation. Duval-Champagne’s mission, as a classically trained artist, is to reintegrate the essence of art into the fashion realm, inspired by their deep admiration for the innovative legacy of Alexander McQueen. They utilize unconventional materials in their work as a means of symbolically representing neurodivergence, particularly within the fashion sector. The strategic incorporation of color throughout their artistic process not only enhances aesthetic value but also serves to convey deeper meanings and emotional connections inherent in each creation.
A quote that has profoundly influenced Chase’s life comes from Sylvia Plath, penned in a heartfelt letter to Eddie Cohen on September 11, 1950. In this candid expression of her inner struggles and convictions, she wrote, “I am so pathetically intense. I just can’t be any other way.” This reflection not only encapsulates her passionate nature but also resonates deeply with Duval-Champagne, reminding them of the power of authenticity and the undeniable strength found in embracing one’s true self, even amidst the complexities of human emotions.
The piece within their thesis collection, titled “The Flowering of Anxiety,” emerges from a profound appreciation for the written word and the transformative power of literature. Books have significantly shaped their life experiences, impacting them both positively and negatively. This work aims to honor those literary influences and the meaningful moments spent either immersing oneself in fictional worlds or seeking refuge from an imposed reality. Included in the collection of florettes are notable titles such as “Turtles All The Way Down” by John Green, “Twilight” by Stephenie Meyer, a selection of musical scores featuring Bach’s Christmas carols, and an introductory guide to basic art skills. This thesis reflects a foundational perspective that provides solace during moments of anxiety, offering an escape into a realm enhanced by the beauty and fragrance of peony flowers.
Words: courtesy of the designer.
