Cast offs reborn as upcycled designs
Panelists share their visions during college networking event
The term “sustainability” pops up everywhere these days as people become more concerned with conserving resources and recycling. Using cast off items in creative ways is a challenge championed by four innovators who will talk about their work during an evening of networking sponsored by the School of Apparel Design & Development.
Ammi Borenstein, director of product for Outdoor Research, will moderate the panel discussion. Panel members include Cheryl Campbell, managing director of the Eileen Fisher Community Foundation, Marita Dingus, artist, and Eli Reich, owner of Alchemy Goods.
The networking, wine and appetizer event will be held on April 10, from 6 to 8:30 p.m. in Seattle Central College’s School of Apparel Design & Development, 1716 Harvard Ave.
The event is open to the public. Register and purchase $15 tickets at: sccd.ejoinme.org/ADandDinnovation2.
Cheryl Campbell is the momentum behind GREEN EILEEN, a recycled clothing program sponsored by designer Eileen Fisher. Lightly used garments are resold or repurposed into children’s clothing at one of four GREEN EILEEN stores, one of which is in the Columbia City neighborhood of Seattle. Details: Greeneileen.org
Artist Marita Dingus makes art from discarded materials using items like fabric, leather, plastic and other found objects. She says she strives to create inspiring and eclectic pieces to convey a powerful message about the sustainability of the human spirit. http://vimeo.com/77820861
Eli Reich’s company, Alchemy Goods, makes upcycled products from items like blown-out bicycle inner tubes, used seat belts and advertising banners. These unwanted pieces are turned into trendy bags, totes, laptop carriers, purses and wallets. He has turned 400,000 bicycle tubes into sought after bags. Alchemygoods.com
Ammi Borenstein, the moderator, leads an Outdoor Research team that designs, develops and merchandises innovative products for the outdoor market. He has also lead collaborative design and development projects with the U.S. military. Outdoorresearch.com.
For more information: Visit the Apparel Design & Development program pages.