Philosophy of Practice

As a Human Ecology student majoring in Clothing, Textiles, and Material Culture, my philosophy of practice is guided by principles of sustainability, creativity, empathy, mindfulness, and critical reflection. The field and profession of Human Ecology is interdisciplinary, involving the study and co-creation of compassionate, interdependent, and sustainable relationships with individuals, families, and communities, where these relationships exist between and among various contexts. Human Ecology is dynamic yet static; it is a constant, ongoing process that evolves rather than ends (Chapman, 2019; informed by Bubolz & Sontag, 1988; Chapman, 2019; informed by Vaines, 1990).

Throughout this degree I have developed an understanding of the complex relationships between and among the various sectors involved in the design, production, and distribution of fashion products, explored the concept of sustainability and recognized the effects of global consumption, as well as learned how global environmental factors play a role in national policies in regard to the textile and apparel industry. This knowledge has helped me shape my goal to produce clothing that is long-lasting and aesthetically meaningful, created through socially responsible and environmentally sustainable means. In addition to this goal, I believe that everybody is deserving of confidence and positive well-being– another goal would be to inspire others to engage in slow-fashion and other thoughtful practices within the field to help inform the effects of global consumption, where clients would be able to receive clothing that helps strengthen their own image, identity, and health in an environmentally conscious way.

For my reflective-practice lens, I chose the approach of a knowledge-based reflective practitioner, allowing me to integrate theory, research, and practices that utilize all relevant sources of knowledge, as well as work with insights from clients and collaborators (Chandler, n.d.). This approach allows me to continuously reflect on my creative process and project outcomes, as well as reflect on feedback in order to identify strengths and weaknesses in order to grow. I believe my evolution as a practitioner involves this kind of reflection in order to make informed and ethical decisions regarding garment construction in addition to fostering mindful engagement with clients and communities.