Black Venom

  • Jennifer Santos
This project initially began with the inspiration which derived from a visit to the Natural History Museum where Jennifer saw the Venom: killer and cure exhibition. This exhibition introduced her to creatures and insects both land and sea, that are typically known to be venomous but also other species that are more unfamiliar. This visit implemented the shapes, colours and materials she used, alongside her visit to the Bournemouth Natural Science Society. Jennifer’s collection uses colour semiotics, the idea that different colours means certain things, triggering certain emotions in people such as, red symbolises danger and pain, green can symbolises poison or harmful substance, black symbolises mystery or death. Jennifer’s project has successfully used a combination of techniques that create a three-dimensional and tactile collection, these included laser cutting, digital printing, heat press, hand and machine embroidery. Furthermore, her use of faux leather and fabrics with a rigid quality acted like a protective pieces of clothing, very armour like. Likewise, she has explored the use of flock and velvet to replicate the textures of tarantulas and wasps which makes the wearer feel discomfort. Overall, Jennifer’s collection is innovative, exciting and the collection exhibits her style as a mixed media designer.