Flora Mae (b. 2000)

A Siren in Silk

Repurposed textiles

Size: radius of 35cm; height of 160cm 

Made using upcycled curtain fabric, A Siren in Silk is a cream damask corset embellished with two chains of gold and blue hanging beads. The beads are hand-sewn to the corset and delicately complement the subtle patterning found in the corset’s fabric; the effect is to focus attention on the feminine bustline. The corset elegantly modulates its varying textures. With a neutral colour palette, there is an enhanced, visual sensitivity to the nuances of the fabric. The corset brings together silky fabrics, organza ribbon, metal beading, pearls, knitwork and lacing in a delicate, balanced whole. 

Taking inspiration from the entrancing beauty of sirens and boat figureheads, Flora styles the corset with a distressed knit dress, lace underskirt, and a pearl necklace to give the impression of a figure emerging from the water.