Artist Statement

Due to the unpredictable nature of the waves or the calmness of the shore, the ocean is often viewed as a symbol of love and the risks that may come along with it. Less explored than space, the abyssopelagic zone, or the ocean deep, presents one of the most dangerous zones of the ocean. Only some scientists experience it with the help of technologically advanced submarines whereas for the species that exist there thrive. While it is difficult to survive due to the lack of food or needing to reproduce, the creatures of the deep transcend human’s perception of survival with their bioluminescent nature and rarity.

While love, motherhood and family is something I yearn for, I find myself in the depths of the ocean alone struggling to find a mate. My abbysopelagic zone was born through insecurity and rejection, however my bioluminescence was always fashion. Through fashion I found a light and a scapegoat for survival. Through avant-garde silhouettes, the alien became a comfort that pushed me through the depths of rejection. Fashion has taught me to defy the expectations of societal norms and glitter in the depths of the dark. www.KylinRae.com

Biography

Originally from Hawaii and based in New York City, Kylin Conant studied apparel design at the Rhode Island School of Design and recently collaborated with Swarovski and International Flavors and Fragrance for her thesis collection.

Conant’s paintings are a result pf her interest in deep sea species. These reimagined “mermaid” creatures draped in Comme Des Garçon attire and pearls reflect themes of love, motherhood and evolution.