Original swatch test of foil technique and organza overlay.
Design sketches from brainstorming.
Mary of Bethany
Mary’s look is inspired by lavender, a cousin of Nard which was used by her to anoint Jesus. The quilting in her skirt was inspired by rolling fields of Lavender in France. She also shares the foil and crystal motif in Martha’s dress symbolizing lavender sprigs.
Final fitting before the embellishment of the blouse began (click to enlarge and see the entire the image.)
Mary and Martha’s looks before embellishment.
Why I chose her
I chose Mary to represent the mold-breaking women of history who pursued education in the face of pressure to get married and have children. She exhibited a strong desire to learn from Jesus and he allowed her to sit at his feet like a male disciple. As a feminist, women’s education is extremely important to me because it empowers women. It enables economic flourishing and access to positions of influence.