Alarna Foster
Contact: alarnafoster@outlook.com
University/School: Birmingham City University
Location: Birmingham
About me
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About me _____
Fashion Branding and Communications Graduate from Birmingham City University.
I take in the world with two perspectives, one of clear, rational logic and the other, of limitless imagination with an ‘anything is possible’ attitude. Combining these two outlooks has led me to specialise in creative strategy, branding and communications, allowing me to create dynamic visuals, that are grounded in insights.
I am heavily inspired by culture. All my work over the course of my degree has been influenced by culture, race or society. From creating a brand to help teenagers understand and respond to racial microaggressions, to writing my dissertation on whether the philosophical idea of post-blackness is the next zeitgeist, and what it means for black British fashion. I believe that in this current climate, it is not good enough to just create visually appealing work. That is why I always aim to use my skills to amplify important voices and provoke meaningful conversations.
Inspiration
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Inspiration _____
'West' does not instinctively mean 'best'
While conducting market research during an internship at a consumer consultancy, I came across the trend of consumers challenging the concept of ‘West is best’. This refers to Western world, namely the UK, USA and Europe, dominating all channels creating a homogeneous culture. My own consumption habits have led me towards Korean culture, through music, food, fashion and film. I have been immersed in the Korean wave known as Hallyu, that is sweeping the West.
Following on from themes in my dissertation on forecasting the next Zeitgeist, South Korean culture and particularly its fashion seems to be what’s next for popular culture. While not overtly mainstream yet, the successes of Korean exports highlight a moderate adoption of the culture which will only increase with the consumer need for diverse content. My final project, HANG-UK Studio, is a space dedicated to South Korean fashion, a timely brand that directly answers the consumer need for diversity.
My work
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My work _____
Detail
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Detail _____
“Throughout history, fashion has reflected economic, cultural, political and social changes in society, essentially embodying the zeitgeist in visible form.”
