‘Get a grip and get real’ is Antonio Slusarz’s advice for any future MA students. In our next Graduate Spotlight interview MA Menswear graduate Antonio discusses the MA course, what he has learned and also the benefits of studying with a diverse, international student body.
To see Antonio’s and the other 11 students involved’s collections tune in to the MA Menswear Catwalk livestream at 11am GMT on Friday 9th January.
Image from MA Menswear graduate Antonio Slusarz’s final collection. Photographer: Felix Cooper, Styling: Jeanie Annan Lewin
LCF News: Tell us about your final collection?
My collection is mostly about surface design and cultural clash. It started as research on the silk route, traditional fabrics and embroidery techniques and evolved from that to urban communication, visual pollution and torn poster walls. My aim was to use embroidery in an unconventional way, as part of the fabric itself, and not just decorative. It’s appliqué technique on a large scale.
LCF News: Where did you study prior to your MA at LCF?
I have two previous degrees from Brazil. BA Fashion Design at UNIVALI, Santa Catarina, and PG Creative Direction of Fashion at FAAP, Sao Paulo. My relationship with menswear started on my PG course, thanks to my dissatisfaction with Brazilian menswear labels that are all too unflattering (aka boring).
LCF News: What are your future plans?
I’d like to be involved in different areas of fashion, from product design to teaching. Right now, I want to design for a European label and keep improving my technique. I am really open minded about work, as long as it is creative or atelier related.
LCF News: How do you think the course will help you to realise these plans?
The MA at LCF is a full time experience that pushes you to a next level in design. From researching to manufacturing, from toiles and sampling to final collection, it’s all about focus and attention to detail. I can use my skills to benefit the creative team of any brand I become involved with.
LCF News: What advice would you give to anyone considering studying an MA at LCF?
Get a grip and get real. The MA courses are very strict with deadlines, so go to the studio and just do it. And also, enjoy the company of your classmates; so many different backgrounds and so much knowledge, it will help you to improve your perception of fashion and how other cultures approach the main subject you are studying.
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