Art and Fashion

There are names like Carol Cadogan, Nefertari, Diane Butcher, Anna and Derek Went, Simon Foster and Pauline Bellamy - designers in Barbados who for years have been taking fabric and transforming it into beautiful works of art and clothing that functions. They paint, dye, applique or incorporate old crafts such as crochet, smocking, beading, embroidery, tucks and ruffles. For them the fabric is just as important as the design of the garment.

Artists/designers who are creating wearable art today:

Maria Elias, creating for Mara ArtWear, is a Barbados–based fabric artist who produces original portraits of Barbados in vibrant colours on clothing and accessories. Her work is a reflection of life in the tropics. Her artistic inspiration comes from the hills, beaches, dancers, the architecture, sunsets, markets and faces of the Caribbean.

Since 1992, Maria has worked and presented her trademark hot bright colours and timeless fashion styles at art and fashion shows in Trinidad, Jamaica and Barbados. The MaraArtWear Collection is designed for island living.

Ann Rudder known for her colourful, theatrical wardrobe, creates intricate mixed- media works & collages on waist-coats and vests. She is passionate about creating clothing that is aesthetically pleasing, unique and limited edition works or art.