Highlights of the Fashion Design field trip to Finland

“This immersive experience not only deepened our insights into the fashion industry but also equipped us with a diverse set of skills and perspectives that will undoubtedly shape our future endeavors in the field.” – Kelly Hsieh, BFA Fashion Design Senior.

Last November, our Fashion Design Seniors embarked on a transformative journey to Finland made possible by PCA’s partnership with Saga Furs. Led by Lucas Maethger, Chair of the Fashion Design Department, these budding designers delved into a 4-day intensive workshop at Saga Furs’ state-of-the-art lab. Here, they honed their skills with premium fur materials, mastered cutting-edge machinery, and explored innovative techniques. Guided by seasoned professionals, they translated their distinct visions into stunning fur creations, showcased later at the end-of-semester critiques.

Saga Furs Creative Hub is the world’s leading visionary laboratory, seamlessly connecting design innovation with the heart of the fur industry: the Saga Furs Auction House. Located in Vantaa, few kilometres away from Helsinki, the capital of Finland, Saga Furs also offers Creative Hub workshops where participants engage hands-on with materials and refine their techniques. Saga Furs, are pioneers in fur innovations and sustainability, nurture the next generation’s appreciation for fur craftsmanship, through collaborations with educational institutions such as Paris College of Art. Prioritizing certified pelts with traceable origins and continually innovating to minimize wastage, in relation to left-over material as well as taking into account the ecological dimension when it comes to collaborations with stakeholders, be it fashion houses, students, or auction patrons are just a few examples of sustainable actions put into place by Saga Furs.

You can read more about Saga Furs here.

So what did the students actually think about this trip? We caught up with Fashion Design Senior Kelly Hsieh, who shared her thoughts on this experience with Saga Furs and why she chose PCA to pursue her studies in Fashion Design.

In what ways do you think that this field trip to Finland with Saga Furs has been a valuable experience?

The trip to Finland with Saga Furs was incredibly valuable on multiple fronts. Exploring fur techniques and textile manipulation in a hands-on manner offered a practical dimension to our learning. Collaborating with international students and seasoned professionals expanded our cultural awareness and strengthened our collaborative skills. Stepping out of our familiar studio environment encouraged a dynamic learning process, fostering the discovery of new approaches. This immersive experience not only deepened our insights into the fashion industry but also equipped us with a diverse set of skills and perspectives that will undoubtedly shape our future endeavors in the field.

What made you choose PCA for your studies in Fashion Design?

Choosing PCA for fashion design is a strategic decision driven by several key factors. Firstly, the ability to transfer credits from Los Angeles FIDM ensures a seamless continuation of my academic journey. PCA’s faculty profile is another compelling aspect, featuring experienced professionals who bring real-world insights to the classroom. The smaller student-to-teacher ratio at PCA is instrumental, offering a more personalized learning environment that fosters hands-on experiences and valuable feedback. This tailored approach enhances our engagement with the curriculum, providing a solid foundation for a successful career in fashion design.