5 Emerging Creatives To Look Out For at Design Indaba #4: Kiara Gounder

INTERVIEWED BY Malibongwe Tyilo

Kiara Gounder, a Durban-based fashion design graduate from the Durban University of Technology created Digital Nature, a fashion range featuring 3D printed accessories.

The pieces explore the concept of symmetry in nature, and to achieve this she turned to microscopic images of fossils, plant cells and insect cells for inspiration. The resulting 3D printed accessories, complemented by monochromatic structured garments, earned this young talent a place amongst this year’s 40 Design Indaba Emerging Creatives. We caught up with her for a brief chat.

How would you describe, in your own words, what you do?

I am a recent fashion design graduate. I conceptualise, design and create – and enjoy pushing the boundaries of my creativity.

What do you think sets your work apart?

I suppose what sets it apart is the integration of innovative 3D technologies. 3D printing technology has been breaking new ground in the international fashion industry, but remains relatively unexplored within South Africa.

The work that I will be exhibiting at Design Indaba forms the practical component for my B-Tech: Fashion study, entitled 3D printing revolution: The impact of innovative technologies on fashion in South Africa. I used my B-tech study as an opportunity to explore my own curiosity about 3D printing technology.

What does it mean for you to be selected as one of Design Indaba’s Emerging Creatives?

It is a once in a lifetime opportunity to showcase my creative abilities. It is also an incredible honour to be included in a group that is so vastly talented.

Any plans in the near future that we should know about?

I am currently working as a part-time fashion lecturer at the Durban University of Technology. I am also working towards my Masters study which will focus on the development of flexible 3D printed materials to create wearable 3D printed garments. I also hope to fit some travelling in between.

In your chosen field, who do you rate?

Alexander McQueen.

Iris van Herpen is the main designer whose work motivated me to apply 3D printing technology to my design practice. Her experimentation and application of 3D printing technology within the international fashion industry is unparalleled.

Anna Wintour – I have always wanted to become a fashion editor. She holds one of the most influential positions within the international fashion industry.

Lastly, South African designer and artist Dr Michaella Janse van Vuuren. She has exhibited her incredibly intricate 3D printed pieces across the world.

We say world domination, you say?

Absolutely! Where do I sign?

Come back next week for #5 of our Emerging Creatives to watch. Missed the others? You’ll find the rest of our interviews right here.

Click here for the full list of this year’s Emerging Creatives.