University of Technology, Sydney; Australia

Eliska Marczan

MATRILINEAL

‘Matrilineal’ is inspired by female free divers and their spiritual connection to the ocean. Eliska focused on Japanese and Korean groups which have evolved and passed down the tradition of free diving to catch seafood for sale. Her collection is designed to be a glimpse into the wardrobe of these women including hand-me-downs and modern pieces such as wet suits. Drawing inspiration from Japanese pearl divers of the 1950s informed her screen printing. Eliska hopes those viewing her collection take away a sense of wonder about the ocean and the knowledge of these free divers, as this dangerous practice is dying as woman move into the city for work.