How changes in technology stimulate the creative process

Description

The role of the designer is not simply to translate patterns but to creatively interpret them. The pattern designer’s creative choice of tools, whether pencil and paper or CAD/CAM, is central to the realisation of two-dimensional pattern pieces into three dimensional garments. There is a need for research investigating the impact of integrating developments in technology on the creative processes and output of designer.
As pattern cutting technology has advanced perceptions have changed. With CAD/CAM the creative aspect of pattern cutting is often ignored; the pattern designer is now sometimes viewed as a mere technologist. Consequently, there is a need for the fashion industry to be reminded of the creative output and skills provided by pattern designers. Furthermore there is a lacuna in knowledge surrounding how technical tools impact on the design processes. The hypothesis behind this research is that CAD/CAM can foster and galvanise creativity in the designer and enhance their outputs rather than merely speeding up processes.
This study investigates the interplay between changing tool technology and creativity and how tools are utilised by designers to realise their own creative potential. This interplay invites consideration of whether or not a pattern designer’s creativity is affected by the tools selected. As technology becomes more sophisticated and designers become fluent in its use it is now being used to interpret pattern designs before they are even cut out. This is explored through reflective and critical examination of designers’ tool use and consideration of how appropriate tool choices best support and enhance the process of creating garments.

Period	23 Jan 2019
Event title	Future Scan 4: Valuing Practice
Event type	Conference
Conference number	4
Location	Bolton, United Kingdom
Degree of Recognition	National