Tamara Cohas
Tamara Cohas
From a young age, I was taught to use my hands to create—my mother taught me to crochet and knit, and my grandmother taught me to use a sewing machine. The tangible and personal involvement that comes with handwork stayed with me as I grew, and was integral to developing my thesis.
My thesis collection is grounded in those same cathartic making practices, which also stem from occupational therapy theory and my interest in early outsider art. In linking handwork to a therapeutic release, I explored the relationship of turn-of-the-century studies of mental illness and concurrent art therapy practices to the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic when my own relationship to making became a coping mechanism.
My thesis collection is grounded in those same cathartic making practices, which also stem from occupational therapy theory and my interest in early outsider art. In linking handwork to a therapeutic release, I explored the relationship of turn-of-the-century studies of mental illness and concurrent art therapy practices to the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic when my own relationship to making became a coping mechanism.
Artist Statement
As a designer of both fashion and textiles, I value craftsmanship, attention to detail, and handwork, with a strong passion for pursuing knitwear, textile design and womenswear. I carefully consider and integrate sustainably-minded practices in my work, such as using vintage remnant materials and deadstock yarns, and believe that purpose-driven design is a key element of being a self-aware designer.
Thesis Collection
Tamara Cohas S/S 2021, Catharsis: Womenswear, with a focus on knitwear and textile design
Chance Encounters: Junior Thesis, S/S2020
Spring 2020. My junior thesis mini-collection, designed and made at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic and the shift to working from home.
Tamara Cohas x Eckhaus Latta, S/S2021
Fall 2020. A collaboration design project for brand Eckhaus Latta, in conversation with the work of painter Helen Frankenthaler.