Wellington Designer Catherine Anderton Wins People’s Choice Award

A stunning creation inspired by the native kārearea has captured the audience’s hearts at this year’s World of WearableArt (WOW) contest. The designer, Catherine Anderton, based in Wellington, received the prestigious People’s Choice Award for her piece titled Autumn King. Anderton’s background in costume design for film, opera, television, and theatre, along with her current role as a sewing instructor at the Wellington Community Education Centre, shaped her innovative approach to this remarkable garment.

The design of Autumn King incorporates a variety of materials, including leather, silk, EVA foam, cotton duck, and taffeta. Anderton expressed her surprise at winning the audience’s favor, stating, “I am a little bit flabbergasted still, I’m so honoured.” This heartfelt comment reflects the deep connection she feels to her work and the recognition from the public.

Crafting a Vision Inspired by Nature

Anderton’s concept emerged from her experience with the kārearea, which occasionally visits her home in Horokiwi, a suburb of Wellington. The design features intricate details such as a beak, talons, and a backdrop of garden elements, including whimsical toadstools. Drawing inspiration from her own garden, which boasts a maple tree and pine trees, she aimed to encapsulate the essence of autumn—a season marked by change, harvest, and preparation for winter.

The artist noted that the autumn season is an ideal time for gardeners, providing a balance between warmth and the chill that allows for tailored clothing. Additionally, Anderton explored themes of repetition in nature, likening certain animal skins to the appearance of decaying leaves. She highlighted the creation of the three toadstools as particularly enjoyable, while the time-consuming leather leaves added a striking effect to her masterpiece.

Bringing the Design to Life

Among the various elements in Autumn King are iridescent moss, silk flowers, and colors reminiscent of tree trunks, as well as a small bunny—a nod to the falcon’s prey. The garment was showcased in the Myths & Legends section of the event and took six months to complete. Anderton remarked on the unexpected movement brought to life by the model, Chris, stating that she had not anticipated the dynamic performance possible in a piece weighing as much as five leather jackets.

Having previously been a finalist and award winner, Anderton made her return to the WOW after a twelve-year break. She believes that Autumn King resonates with audiences due to its fairytale-like quality, invoking nostalgia and childlike wonder. “I think birds are magical,” she shared, emphasizing the emotional connection her design fosters.

Winning the People’s Choice Award also includes a prize of $2,500 for Anderton, alongside a randomly-selected audience member who voted for her garment. The kārearea, New Zealand’s only falcon and fastest bird, has recently been recognized as the country’s bird of the year, further highlighting the significance of Anderton’s design.

With renewed creative energy, Anderton expressed her intention to enter the competition again in the future. Her journey, marked by previous accolades including the First-Time Entrant Award in 2009 and placements in the Open section, showcases her dedication and passion for her craft. The recognition of Autumn King not only celebrates her artistry but also serves as a tribute to the enchanting world of wearable art.