Mandy Kaipainen
Artist Bio
Mandy Kaipainen, a 22-year-old from Buzzards Bay, Massachusetts, is a talented artist specializing in textile, fiber, and fashion design. With a passion for fantasy and history, Mandy brings a unique edge to her clothing designs and illustrations. After earning an Associate's Degree in Graphic Design from Bristol Community College, Mandy transferred to Umass Dartmouth to pursue a Bachelor's Degree in Fashion Design.
Artist Statement
In my exploration of textile arts and handcrafting, I merge diverse mediums to express a distinct artistic vision. This exploration fuels my various artistic pursuits, which include knitting, sewing, embroidery, illustration, acting, and performance, allowing me to orchestrate a symphony of expression. With each stitch, brushstroke, and performance, I find fulfillment and a profound artistic connection.
Fashion Design Major at Umass Dartmouth
TextileWork
Allover Textile Embroidery
Shibori Stitching (utilizing indigo dye)
Butterfly Mola
Sashiko, Boro, and Various Techniques
Needle Weaving
Multicolored Handwoven Shawl
Woven Shawl in Progress
Junior Year Collection
single concept Looks
YWCA Red Dress Event Design
Sophomore Year Single Concepts
Fairytale Sweetheart Dress
Late Victorian Inspired Athleisure
Three Piece Knit Look
Draped Knit Column Dress
2000’s Punk Inspired Look
Draped Bodice Corset Dress
In the Fall of 2023, Mandy experimented in a Fibers’ elective called Wearable Art.
This included needle felting, felt hat forming, embroidering, and light-up fashion.
The light-up effect was achieved via EL Wire.
wearable Art
Pink and Black Felted Bat Themed Hat
Light-up Pinafore Skirt Via EL Wire