Masks for Gareth Pugh, London Fashion Week 2007.

This work is a collaboration with fashion designer Gareth Pugh and make-up artist Alex Box to create a series of 12 masks for the LFW catwalk show.

Part of my research involved looking at the way 3-D data captured from the body may be used as a surface on which to explore creative ideas of form and function customised to the individual. In this case it is in the context of identity and gender, where the mask is used, like clothing or make-up in fashion, both as an expression of identity, and as a protective barrier between wearer and audience.

This project demonstrated the use of 3D design and manufacturing techniques which allow fast product development cycles. This type of process is typically associated with engineering product development where rapid prototyping reduces the costs associated with tooling.

The method used was to scan the face of a model using a laser scanner, which was then cleaned and surfaced using haptic tools. This was then realised using Rapid Prototyping to make a master, from which a series of clear masks could be vacuum formed. It was planned to scan each individual model and realise individualised masks, but the restraints of time and availability made this unfeasible at this time. The process was realised in 4 days, and demonstrates the efficacy of these techniques for fast-turnaround in creative applications.

The significance of developing this project for a designer like Pugh is that it allows for last minute creative decisions to be rapidly translated for catwalk presentation, without significant investment in time and materials.

The masks remain as part of the designers archive for that season. They will be available for stylists and photographers to use in magazine editorial shoots from September 2007, via Mandi Lennard PR.

• http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Od3d2rRgN...
• http://www.style.com/fashionshows/comple...
• http://www.vogue.co.uk/shows/photos/Defa...