COPY, FOLD, HOLD: WHAT IS INSIDE THE SUITCASE? BY LEANNE YANSIN CHOI
Leanne Yansin Choi
Interested in representing Asian-Australian diaspora culture, Leanne Yansin Choi, combines clothing, objects, and text as an experimental body of performative and transformative work to challenge the traditional fashion design contexts, values, and functions. Initiated from her grandma’s wardrobe, Leanne draws from her surrounding spaces and nostalgic experiences to explore the connection between Fashion and Diaspora. Previously Leanne’s work has been featured in Melbourne Fashion Week and Fashion Journal, as well as completed internships with Obus and Anna Campbell.
Copy, Fold, Hold: What is Inside the Suitcase?
Copy, Fold, Hold: What is inside the suitcase? is a practice-based Masters’ research project exploring the performative relationship between Diaspora and Fashion. Initiated from my Honours (RMIT BA Fashion Design) project, there was interest in studying how materials and objects from domestic spaces can express my Asian-Australian identity.
Broadly, I intend to represent Asian-Australian Diaspora culture, seeking validation. This experience is unpacked through the diffusion and appropriation of existing objects, textiles, and garments, challenging its traditional function, value, time, and purpose. It presents both individual and collective stories, sharing nostalgic moments in Australia and Hong Kong gathered from my grandma and mother’s wardrobe.
