Pretty Macabre

by Kita

Fashion is one of the oldest forms of expression. In ancient times, and still today, it serves as a way to determine status and even where one stands in society. One of the more expressive designers that I've had the pleasure of meeting is Pretty Macabre, a woman whose name fits her style to a T.
 A dash Victorian, a dash mad hatter, a pinch of deliciously macabre, and ever elegant, her work is quickly propelling her to be one of the most beloved artists of the Salt Lake valley. Her work is all over in photographs, fashion shows, and even on local talent, including herself, a talented performer in her own right.
  She's a talented artist, and a talented artist is a gift to everyone. Luckily, she's kept her cool, and was kind enough to sit down and interview with us this week. Don't miss this chance to peek inside a wonderfully delightful mind and check out some of her gorgeous work in the photos below.

The Interview: 

Kita: How would you describe your artwork?

Pretty: Dark, yet whimsical with soft tattered accents and lace.

Kita: What first got you into designing?

Pretty: I began designing in junior high. I was always cutting clothes and trying to recreate clothing and dance costumes! Once I got into high school, I had enough experience to start sewing full garments and costumes. I knew I wanted to go into fashion design!

Kita: What were your goals when you started?

Pretty: I really wanted to be able to draft my own patterns! That is the hardest thing in the beginning, knowing what you want to make and trying to execute it. I mostly just wanted to make creative garments and have fun doing it!

Kita: How about now?

Pretty: I love seeing my costumes in a performance type atmosphere! One of my main goals is to, one day, have my pieces in a theatrical production show like Cirque Du Soleil or some of the other amazing traveling Aerial Cirque shows.

Kita: Do you get anxious to share your work?

Pretty: It all depends on the piece! Sometimes I'm just dying and can't wait for other people to see it! Other times I wonder if people will be ready to see it.

Kita: What is your biggest struggle?

Pretty: Finding amazing fabric in SLC. We are more of a cotton shop here.

Kita: How do you enjoy the arts community in the SLC area?

Pretty: SLC has an amazing arts community! I have been able to meet and work with so many talented creative artists! Some of which I've become good friends with and they consistently inspire me.

Kita: Are those closest to you supportive of your work?

Pretty: Very supportive! I don't know what I would do without all the support I receive from my family and friends.

Kita: Your work tends to have a (good) creepy edge to it. Where do you find the inspiration for that sort of thing?

Pretty: I think my creepy edge just comes from within! I've always loved the darker, more macabre things. I'm inspired by so many artists, photographers, and films! When something inspires me, and I go to create from that inspiration, usually something a little darker will naturally come out of it.

Kita: How do you handle the business side of things?

Pretty: I find the business side of things to be a little difficult. As the years go by, I learn more and more about it. I definitely feel like doing the creative design side more!

Kita: Is it hard to organize your art into different categories for shows with themes and the like?

Pretty: A lot of people have me do events because of my style of design. If there is a theme, I'm usually pretty good about switching into that mindset. With costuming you are always doing something different! That's what I love about it!

Kita: Do you enjoy collaborations or are you more of a solo worker?

Pretty: I absolutely love collaborations! I find it so inspiring to work with other talented creative people! I do very much love my solo work as well.

Kita: Once you have an idea, how likely are you to change it before the final production?

Pretty: Usually I see something in my head, and I try to make it exactly as I see it! But it can be harder to fabricate the things you see in your head into real life. Sometimes things will change and recreate in a slightly different way!

To check out more of this incredibly talented artists work, go to: PrettyMacabre.com

Have anyone else you'd like us to chat with? Suggestions are taken in the comments below!