I’m Marlene, a French designer based in London. I moved to Lyon for my BA, where I discovered silk production — Lyon was very famous for its silk during the 19th century. Then I decided to challenge myself, so I moved to London to pursue a MA at Central Saint Martins. I work in a variety of different areas — from fashion to art — and with a variety of mediums — from products to textiles.
I have to sit down for a week, at least, and take the time to map the next months. I am developing some projects at the moment that are more product-design based and I really enjoy it. I would like to work in a larger scale, with installations, window displays and furniture pieces. My latest project is called “From Insects” and it explores the viability to use insect materials in the design process. It has received attention for future collaborations, commissions and exhibitions in Europe. My sample research work is exhibited at the Scin Gallery in London until October, and the project will also be presented during the London Design Week in September.
The “Ones To Watch” show at 6pm featured Maltese women’s design duo Charles & Ron, “Made in NYC” outerwear brand Jungwon (which featured androgynous model Rain Dove walking in the show) and boots by Cat Footwear, German womenswear designer Anya Liesnik, sports apparel company Planet Zero Motorsports, and Global Citizen.
Global Citizen is a movement to end world poverty, which empowers everyday people to take action and see real impact. At Nolcha, Global Citizen unveiled its 2015 festival line, that will be available online and at the annual festival in Central Park on September 26th featuring headliners Beyoncé, Pearl Jam, Ed Sheeran, and Coldplay. The show also premiered a limited edition Global Citizen x Aviator Nation collection and the “Beyoncé” shirt (one of four limited-edition single artist tees), all also available as of September 26th. All items benefit The Global Poverty Project, a nonprofit that is building a worldwide movement to end extreme poverty by 2030. Four campaign managers from the GPP walked in the show (in lieu of traditional models).