The project was to create an artistic response to James Ensor's Christ's Entry into Brussels in 1888. I chose to create a piece based upon the social, political and religious unrest going on in Belgium at the time of the painting. Belgium was a new country with only it's second king, Leopold II. Leopold made Belgium into an imperial power by conquering the Congo where his men would cut off the hands of the locals as punishment for not meeting quotas on harvested natual materials. Belgium was separating from the Catholic Church. There was a growing interest in the middle class for a labor party that reflected their industrial views. There was a lot going on. This all inspired me to create "King of the Congo" aka "Imperial March". The dress is made of real wool. The drapes are silk taffeta (which I am now obsessed with working with). All patterns were either patterned or draped by me. The metals, cross and "hand bells" were 3D printed by me. I am very happy that it is done, but very proud of not only my accomplishment as well as that of my classmates. . . #gradschool #costumedesign #costume #gettycollegenight #ensor
