spain
Cocoon of isolation
A large, heavy cocoon-like cape made from patchworked denim scraps. The garment fully envelops the body, featuring a helmet-like hood with a minimal opening, creating a sense of isolation, protection, and emotional withdrawal
This piece was developed through a collaborative process combining textile assembly, draping, and embroidery. Participants worked together to construct the garment using denim scraps, contributing according to their abilities and interests. The design process was guided by a textile designer, but decisions around form and composition were shared. Embroidered elements, including words and symbolic features, were created by participants, adding layers of personal expression. The piece reflects a collective approach where making becomes a tool for communication and inclusion.
The piece loosely references historical garments such as monastic cloaks, particularly those associated with isolation, introspection, and withdrawal from society. This reference is reinterpreted in an exaggerated and contemporary form, transforming a traditional silhouette into an expressive and emotional statement.
The use of denim—an everyday, widely used material—contrasts with the conceptual depth of the piece, grounding it in contemporary culture.
The garment is made entirely from reused denim scraps, repurposed and assembled into a new textile structure.
Eco-responsible Methods:
The piece is created through upcycling, transforming discarded denim into a new garment. Patchwork construction minimizes waste, while hand-based techniques such as embroidery add value without additional environmental impact.
The collaborative process also emphasizes slow making and conscious production.
The process
The process began by assembling multiple denim scraps into a large textile surface through patchwork. Through draping workshops, the group explored how the material could wrap and structure the body, eventually leading to a cocoon-like form with integrated false sleeves.
A large hood was developed as a key feature, designed to function almost like a helmet, with only a small opening for vision. This creates a strong physical experience of enclosure when worn.
Separately, participants created embroidered patches featuring words and phrases that emerged during group sessions, along with symbolic elements such as eyes and lips. These were later applied to the garment, building a layered narrative.
Our Team
The whole is much more than the sum of it’s part. Meet our team!
Users Participating in the project
Mariajo, Naomi, Ana, Luisa, Mark, Mariángeles, Rocío
Inge Bollen
Textil artist and designer
I am a textile designer and artist with over 20 years of experience in fashion design, graphics, and prints.
I have decided to return to my roots in textile art, my true passion, exploring new techniques and creative approaches to grow as a creator and connect emotionally with the audience.
With the support of the Creative Europe Programme of the European Union
Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA). Neither the European Union nor EACEA can be held responsible for them.
