Less than FOUR WEEKS until Omaha Fashion Week kicks off another exciting season of fashion and glamour February 23rd-29th, and we’re thrilled to share more about our amazing lineup of designers!
Clarissa Knighten of Rissa's Artistic Design merges sculpture and fashion in her avant-garde accessories. Natural elements like wood and leather are incorporated with metals to create memorable statement pieces.
How did you get into fashion? Share a little about your background.
Fashion has always been in my blood. My mother and grandmother were both seamstresses. In high school, I made my clothing for church each week. However, it wasn’t until I was in therapy for depression that I realized I had a gift to create wearable art.
Stairway to Heaven
Describe your brand and the feeling you want it to convey. How was your brand concept born?
My brand will allow the wearer to feel empowered. The concept of my art continues to change, as it was birthed out of my desire to heal. As I grow and experience life my brand grows. When it is worn it will allow the voice to be heard. The wearer can share what’s on and in the heart.
What are your personal goals, or goals for your brand?
The beautiful thing about being a jewelry designer is that I’ve been exposed to other creative persons with visions. I want to cross-pollinate wearable art on bodies and in galleries. I can see my work on Broadway, in theatrical productions and in the theaters!
LEFT: Oak & Resin, RIGHT: Mixed Materials
Describe your favorite project(s) that you have worked on.
If I must narrow it down to one, it would have to be transforming tree branches to wearable art for West 18th Street Fashion Show in June 2019. When I work on a project, I am all in. So, in reality, every project is a favorite because I learn so many things about myself, the materials that I am working with, and working with others. I am forever learning.
Where did you find inspiration for your new collection?
The inspiration behind this season’s collection has been growing and building as my work continues to build towards showing sculptural work. I want people to see tree branches and coils in a new light with bold leather pieces. In KCFW March 2019 I created an amazing line with oak, walnut, and resin. The plan is to expand this concept.
Bike Chain
Describe the specific customer you are designing for.
R.A.D Clients are all of those that want to have a conversation about the art they are wearing.
How do you balance creativity/innovation with consistency in your work?
Creating art is a balancing act! I try to maintain multiple projects at one time. As a full-time artist, I realize that runway pieces may or may not sell immediately. Therefore, creating for my website and expos brings me back to revenue-based work, the everyday person. I keep a book with runway ideas, recognizing that I can pull them out at any time. I pride myself on thinking outside of the box. Create from my heart and it will be received.
Group Photo from March 2019
What sort of design elements can we expect from you this season? What materials, colors, shapes, or patterns will you be using?
Rust, brown, copper, and navy will be the colors alongside natural elements. Teal might be included if the wire becomes available. Crystals will be added so the lights can pick them up. The clothing will be basic black, nothing too fancy.
You can see Rissa’s Artistic Design on the runway during our EVOLVE Featured Designer Showcase on February 29th! To learn more about Clarissa and her work, visit her website and follow along on Facebook and Instagram as she puts the finishing touches on her collection! Snag your tickets to OFW’s Spring 2020 season today!