Donald S.

Inspiration

For my Senior Prom I wanted to debut my persona “Chardon X”, a Paladin for Christ. Being accepted into a GA. College of Fine Arts and focusing on my career in Musical Theater & Drama, Chardon X is a character I wish to develop further and create a following for. Many pieces were balls of stuck together messes that lay on the floor! My initial test piece was by applying the tape onto already made clothing and failing miserably. I asked my mom if we could custom design and create my unique vision of a Gentlemen Knight. So together we discovered that the tape, once applied to a pliable material could be cut and sewn to create a custom-made suit. Refined details of basket weaving on the yoke and shoulders gives an illusion of armor. The shield of flames and blue flames are my representation of redemption. The vintage style vest with lace French cuffs and jabot all are my nod to a softer and humble servant of God. The lace was created of clear tape over paper doilies, then taped into cuffs and ruffles. The entire outfit along with embellished details of the back shield and boots were tedious and time consuming. Pattern pieces and shapes proved to be almost gymnastics like routine to allow the stiffness to be contoured into submission for sewing. The black on black, was difficult to get visual depth to truly show the craftsmanship but the sewn pleating and darting give a fitted shape with fullness to both the vest and coat, and the tape ultimately does hold its shape well. Entering prom, I received open applause which was exciting. Everyone was amazed that my tux was made of duct tape but knew with my “diffabilities” of autism and being different from most, as well as my antics on stage and around school that this was a challenge made with my name all over it. The feeling was incredible. I was truly excited to represent this creation made of Duck Brand Duct Tape. I think I lost 10 pounds in sweat while wearing this as it looked like I was thrown into a pool… but the whole experience was completely worth it and I’d gladly do it again for duct tape creates a new and exciting medium for on stage performing ~ and immediate repairs to props if need be on the fly. Thank you for this opportunity.