Ziyi Jin

As I grew up, I frequently needed to have ID photographs taken, typically during the process of updating identification documents. During these sessions, I was asked to wear dark-colored clothes or collared ones, effectively returning to my most genuine and ordinary self. The similar outfits make everyone look like they came off an assembly line. In just a few minutes, the subject being photographed was dressed, but it seemed that the uniform clothing had 'peeled' away what could be said to be their individuality. Within the small photo viewfinder, the person endeavoured to imitate the most suitable behaviour in their perception. Not only this prescribed dress code, but also in any behaviour that requires interaction, people have this 'peeling' process. This 'peeling' action is momentary in the long journey of life, but it never stops, just like a peeler constantly peeling off the outer skin of fruits. What is stripped away from this action are the external traces, while its characteristics have never been discarded. It is also like a postmark on a letter, fixed in a specific moment yet serving as a traceable imprint. I define this phenomenon as 'The Peeler'. Both clothing and its wearer can assume the role of The Peeler, actively or passively enacting this act of 'peeling'. Based on these, my design approach centres on three key themes: montage, imprint, and peel. I focus on everyday clothing, constructing the patterns of common clothing structures, such as the collar of the shirt, the front opening (placket), etc., and combine them with daily clothing to simulate the state that the subject should present without the action of 'peeling off'. This is not a parasitic structure but rather a symbiotic one. Additionally, I selected a range of fabrics made from various materials to represent different personality traits. I also hope that my design can utilise 'The Peeler' to run through the past and the future.