Weekend Inspiration: CONFETTISYSTEM at PS1

Cherry blossom branches and metallic mylar fringe galore at PS1's two-story gallery

Cherry blossom branches and metallic mylar fringe galore at PS1’s two-story gallery

I went to MoMA PS1 over the weekend, mainly to check out the new CONFETTISYSTEM installation 100 Arrangements. Creative duo Nicholas Andersen and Julie Ho transform simple materials such as tissue paper, cardboard, and silk into interactive objects that create a point of focus, where memories are made and a spontaneous collaboration with the viewer is sparked. For 100 Arrangements, Anderson and Ho have created an immersive environment inspired by the mechanics of theatrical staging and fly systems.

Colorful diamond decorations at PS1's two-story gallery

Colorful diamond decorations at PS1’s two-story gallery

I first came across CONFETTISYSTEM in 2009 when I read about their amazing metallic piñatas on DailyCandy and instantly became a fan. I had the pleasure of working with Nick and Julie last month to create decorations for my confetti-fueled New York book launch party at 3rd Ward – multicolor tassel garlands, handcut confetti in trapezoidal shapes, and metallic mylar fringe piñatas (filled with confetti, of course!). Let’s just say even the cleanup portion of the evening post-party was fun, too.

Confetti fun at 3rd Ward (Photo Credit: Liz Clayman)

My New York book launch party at 3rd Ward (Photo Credit: Liz Clayman)

Photo booth magic at 3rd Ward (Photo Credit: HAVE BOOTH WILL TRAVEL)

Photo booth magic at 3rd Ward (Photo Credit: HAVE BOOTH WILL TRAVEL)

This artist-design firm has built up quite a diverse clientele. CONFETTISYSTEM has art directed and created installations and sets for fashion brands (Lanvin, Opening Ceremony, United Bamboo) as well as musical acts (Beach House, Yeah Yeah Yeahs, Beyoncé). They have also created custom design work for MoMA PS1, The New York Times, and Pop Magazine with Gagosian Gallery. Sounds like these two have the funnest jobs ever!

CONFETTISYSTEM: 100 Arrangements is on view until March 31, 2013 at MoMA PS1, 22-25 Jackson Ave. at the intersection of 46th Ave., Long Island City, NY 11101.

Upcoming Book Launch Parties and More!

BurdaStyle Sewing Vintage ModernJoin me at these upcoming events to celebrate the launch of BurdaStyle Sewing Vintage Modern in New York, San Francisco, and Santa Cruz this month!

To kick off the book tour, I’ll be doing a book signing on December 10, 2012 from 7-9pm at the Manhattan Textile Arts Center, where I’ve also been teaching sewing and draping classes for the last two years. Highlights include sweets from Momofuku Milk Bar (did someone say compost cookies? yum!) and a free gift from BurdaStyle with a book purchase.

Later on that week is my New York book launch party on December 13, 2012 from 7-9pm in Brooklyn at 3rd Ward, where I teach sewing classes as well. Not only will there be door prizes and an interactive photo booth with printable photos from Have Booth Will Travel, but confetti and a pinata (yes, a confetti pinata) will also be in order from CONFETTISYSTEM. That’s not all! There will also be yummy cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, and desserts from Rucola, and DIY make-and-take sewing stations led by the BurdaStyle crew. Get your stitch on and make a tote bag or drawstring backpack using beautiful fabric from Spoonflower.

If I haven’t lost you yet in this wonderful sea of food speak, I’ll be off to the west coast for a book signing at a lovely fabric shop in Santa Cruz called Hart’s Fabric, which has been around since 1969. Join me for an afternoon of DIY making from 4-6pm on December 17, 2012 plus a free gift from BurdaStyle with a book purchase.

Last but not least is my San Francisco book launch party on December 18, 2012 from 7-9pm at Britex Fabrics. As an SF native, Britex holds a special place in my heart. It is one of the very first fabric stores I ever visited growing up in the city and has been a constant source of fashion and sewing inspiration. In addition to giveaways from Makeshift Society, MOO, and more, join me for drinks and sweets from Tartine Bakery and macarons from Miette Confiserie. Britex will also be hosting DIY make-and-take brooch/hair fastener and button making tutorials.

Preview the garments from the book, get a signed copy for yourself or as a gift, and meet other DIY makers at these upcoming events! I’m SO excited and look forward to a month of great fun!

BurdaStyle Sewing Vintage Modern