Jan Badgley is an accomplished artist who has expanded on her background in painting and interior design, becoming a clothing designer whose playful pieces function as wearable art.
Following in the tradition of her friend and mentor, Barbara de Jounge, Jan embraces the Japanese design aesthetics of simplicity, asymmetry, understatement and freedom from formula. Each of Jan’s designs bring together strong graphic elements and functional fashion. Jan uses simple materials and shibori techniques, folding and unfolding felted wool as the wool contracts and expands. She delights in exploring the many possibilities of the sewing machine, thread and yarn.
As Jan notes,Translating my background in painting to clothing is an exciting challenge. I follow in the tradition of Barbara de Jounge and the Japanese aesthetic.
Using the simple materials of felted wool and shibori techniques, I am unfolding as the wool contracts. The sewing machine, thread and yarn have many possibilities.
My favorite quote is by the artist Francis Picabia: “your head is round so your thinking can change direction.” This flexibility in attitude keeps life interesting and renewing.