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Ariel

@Purple_Octopus

Disciplines

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Lives and Works

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About

I have always loved fashion and arts, but the environment I grew up in wasn't always supportive of art or the kind of fashion that I was into. The first time I ever upcycled anything was in fifth grade with a pair khakis; I used food coloring to make flowers on them because I didn't have any paint. I wore them to school and everyone laughed at my weird pants. It would be years before I ever designed clothes again. During my undergrad, I felt safe enough to give fashion another go. I made jewelry, which somehow lead to me selling vintage clothes, but ultimately, I knew I wanted to sell my own creations. I proudly create unique garments that are vintage-inspired, yet kitschy, whimsical, and playful. Colors, textures, and prints are what make each Purple Octopus piece truly original. Additionally, I create handmade jewelry and accessories, and conduct seasonal color analysis for those who aren't yet ready to wear a Purple Octopus statement piece. Currently, I work in education and use each day as an opportunity to dress like Ms. Frizzle.

Artist Statement

The focus of my handmade garments is to create vintage-inspired wardrobe staples by upcycling textiles. Essentially, turning trash into treasures by using secondhand, deadstock, or remnant fabric to create wearable, kitschy pieces.