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| Model: Erin Khasala Makeup and Hair: Tanya J. Hair & Make-up Neckpiece: Mia Von Mink Headpiece: J-Chan's Designs Photography: Jiamin Zhu-www.jajasgarden.com |
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| Photographer: Kencredible: Photography by Ken Penn Model: Valeri Kimbro Wardrobe/Styling: J-Chan's Designs |
AJ: Your creations are absolutely track stopping; I cannot stop looking at them! How do you manage to come up with these artistic pieces, where do the ideas appear from?
JR: A close friend of mine once described me as “someone that is very much on the outside just looking in” and I think that my art is an exact reflection of this statement. I've always been quiet and reserved but with an analytical and curious eye, I tend to absorb a lot from my surroundings both emotionally and visually. For me, my art is a voice rather than an idea. It’s quite personal and often compulsive. People express themselves differently; I’ve always chosen art and visuals over words.
AJ: I noticed when reading about you on your website, that you have a keen interest in the
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| New York, Paris, London Milan Photography by: Jiamin Zhu- www.jajasgarden.com Wardrobe/Styling by: J-Chan's Designs Purchase: http://www.etsy.com/ Model: Elizabeth — at Seattle, WA. |
JR: When I was in the process of graduating middle school it was required to select a second language as an upcoming freshman about to begin their high school education. At the time our options were limited, and among the few choices I innately selected Japanese. I was extremely fortunate that my sensei was mature and a native of Japan, she provided her students with a diverse perspective and insight into the culture that other students presently might not have the chance to experience as I did. She really opened up my eyes, and I became incredibly immersed and inspired by the Japanese culture. Having the opportunity to travel to Japan as a teenager was a true gift. Although it put me at odds with my generation in terms of outlook, it benefited me in more ways than I realized at the time and it’s possibly the very reason why I’m a designer today.
AJ: You have been published numerous of times, with your work covering the Urban Mainstream magazine cover and inside, Dark Beauty magazine, DeVelo Magazine, UK's Bizarre magazine, that I and my friends have bought and are a fan of, and so many more. These must be amazing for you to be getting recognition for your multi talents and being rather successful. Has there been a time when things were really difficult for you? and did you ever get to a point where you thought to yourself "I am getting nowhere"?
JR: I remember the first time I was published, I was just 17 years old and I was recognized as a young female entrepreneur in a local business women’s magazine called Divapreneurs. Shortly after, I turned 18 and subsequently landed a feature in Gothic Beauty Magazine, it was a very exciting process for me at the time. To be recognized locally and then in a matter of a mere months to be published nationally on newsstands was surprising to say the least. It was surreal purchasing Gothic Beauty Magazine at the bookstore. Today, having been published so many times it’s more of a process for me. I really do enjoy interviews and there are particular features that are still really exciting for me. Unfortunately I think I’m always in an “I am getting nowhere” phase! As an artist, it’s difficult to not feel that way all the time. I have high expectations for myself and I’m consistently striving to expand my brand and involve myself in as many artistic endeavors as possible. I love working on my craft, and part of the feeling that tells me I’m not doing enough is what helps motivate my success and has allowed me to achieve what I have in such a short span of time.
AJ: What do you enjoy the most out of designing your pieces?
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| "The Secret" As seen in Vigore Magazine Photography by: Nina Pak Art Wardrobe/Styling by: J-Chan's Designs Model: Sarah Scoular Purchase: http://www.etsy.com/ |
AJ: I think the first time you do something it is rather important and an impressionable memory as it sets the path of new discoveries, ideas and even at times opens up the career that you were born to do. Do you remember the first time you had made something relating to what you are doing now and what you have done? If you do are you able to talk about it and did it turn out how you planned?
JR: I was always an artist. When I was a child I think my imagination was too much for me to handle, but as soon as I figured out how to express myself, I was creating. I started receiving honors as a child first for my drawing and painting skills, and then I was often placed in art courses above my class. It wasn't until I reached Elementary school that I participated in sewing club as an extracurricular activity. I was one of a few students that struck an interest in this activity. My first creation was during this course, and it was an apple shaped pillow that I machine sewed. I stuffed it with batting and used a variety of the hand-stitches I had learned to add a worm onto it. Technically speaking, this was the first item I created with a sewing machine and a needle, but before then I was like any child…creating characters and worlds during playtime or dress-up. I guess I never grew out of it!
AJ: Can you explain the process that you go through for your designs and pieces?
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| Featured on Coilhouse Magazine's blog (http://coilhouse.net/2012/ A preview image from "Athena's Curse, Medusa's Fate" featuring my personal portrayal of Medusa. Photographed in Vancouver BC by artist, Nina Pak Art. |
JR: This question is always difficult for me because each project is unique in its own way. I do my best to first utilize the fabrics and supplies that I have on hand, especially with an artist’s budget. I think that I’ve become cleverer in my creative process because of monetary circumstances. You may see what appears to be a larger than life piece, but for the past year all of my creations have been crafted with scarcely minimal product consumption. I will find a use for nearly anything; I think my toy gun headpiece is a prime example. However, when I’m working on a project that requires specific fabrics or supplies my process starts in the fabric store. I almost never go fabric shopping with a list; all I require is a rough idea and a remote color concept. I’m usually drawn to exactly what I think I was looking for, and other times it takes me several hours to decide what route I want to take. Lately, I’ve really enjoyed shopping for my supplies online, especially with small independent supply shops or distributors. I rather prefer this method over shopping with a large chain business. When creating the actual piece it’s as I mentioned previously, what I’m visualizing is produced directly onto the dress form.
AJ: How long does it take for you to construct a final piece?
JR: This varies; it’s also dependent on how inspired I feel. The easiest part for me is to create the piece on my dress form; it’s the most artistic element of my work a part from styling the final piece on a model. The most extraneous aspect of my work is actually sewing it together, I think I view that aspect more as a technical element and it’s sometimes difficult to see the artistry in it. When it comes to my personal projects the construction can range anywhere from a few days time to a couple weeks. There are many last minute projects I partake in that have a 24-48 hour deadline, so if it’s required of me I can be extremely efficient in producing quality work with a harsh time-frame. Other projects can take several months, especially if the project is on and off for me. I have to let some work sit and later revisit and revise it.
AJ: Are there any new projects, plans or any exciting things with you and your work that we should be looking out for?
JR: I will be in Los Angeles on the 28th for the U.S. premiere of independent film “LIMBUS” which is debuting at the Loz Feliz Theater in Hollywood during the United Film Festival. I designed the costume for the character Trauco. I’m absolutely thrilled to have been involved in this film, and it’s the most exciting upcoming event for me. I also have a lot of new exciting work coming up while I’m in Los Angeles. It’s best to keep up with me on facebook to see all of my latest as well as behind the scenes content and more! www.facebook.com/jchansdesigns
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| Model: Yana Jones of Wilhelmina Denver Photographer: Clint Earhart | Photography Headpiece, Earrings, Makeup: J-Chan's Designs |
JR: My advice to all serious aspiring designers is to dedicate your free time to independent research. Indulge in art history as you would with any current runway or trend. Developing a knowledge in the timeline of art is incredibly beneficial...to understand what was created before your existence. I studied visuals for over a year in advance and it helped me find my element and successfully create my signature. The one goal every designer should achieve is an unmistakably unique style that can never be unidentifiable. Never confine or limit your art, if you can imagine it you can find a way to create it.
I don't know about the rest of you, but I am making sure that I make a note and catch the sites of the premier for the new independent film "LIMBUS" I am looking forward to seeing the Trauco character with the costume created by the wonderful Jessica Rowell.
If you would like to see more of Jessica Rowell's work, or would like to have the opportunity to purchase and wear her designs then go to these sites:
J-Chans Designs: http://jchansdesigns.com/
J-Chans Designs shop: https://www.etsy.com/shop/JChansDesigns
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