This course examines a new creative domain, the intersection of design, fashion and biology. In the first part of the course you will explore the pattern-generating mechanisms that create much of what is commonly referred to as natural beauty. You will take a deep dive into these patterns, and come to understand them by playing with them, varying them, and adapting them. You will even use some of the very mechanisms life itself uses to make your own patterns. 
In the second part of the course you will use living organisms to create novel patterns and textiles. You will work with these organisms to create something never before seen. These bio-patterns will then be deployed to create a form, textile or garment. The mode of deployment will be based on the mode of life of the organisms you have collaborated with.Having built your skills, in the third part of the course you will set off on an independent path to create a unique piece that is evolved from living constituents, with an innovative work of design/fashion created with life itself. The course culminates with projects being submitted to the CCA Fashion BioDesign Challenge 2021.  (Last year's winners hailed from three different departments: Camila Wandemberg, Individualized; Claire Mermelstein, Fashion and Giovanna Spilman, Industrial Design.)  And the winner of that challenge will go on to the global BioDesign Challenge 2021, and present in NYC in the summer of 2021.  See link for more details: https://biodesignchallenge.org/