This Herron student wants to show her stuff at the Met Gala, inspire others

IndyStar

At left, artist Monique Burts watches as models display her wearable artwork on the runway at MAGNIFY, an artist showcase presented by RAW: Indianapolis at Old National Centre, Wednesday, June 20, 2018. Burts said the short time her models have on stage is worth the sleepless nights of preparation. "Those three minutes are just amazing up there, I love it. I love every part of it," Burts said. "And it makes me really sad when it's over."

During those three minutes, everything is blank.

That’s how Monique Burts describes the feeling of seeing her artwork on stage. “Like I’m just only seeing my models and what’s happening,” Burts said. “I love it, I love every part of it and it makes me really sad when it’s over.”

The 23-year-old Herron School of Art and Design sculpture student often spends sleepless nights preparing garments, all for less than ten minutes in front of the audience.

She finds inspiration everywhere. She might pull over while driving to sketch an interesting shape or queue up a funky playlist while working. She once collected shoe form inserts behind the counter at her retail job, giving them second life in the Herron Wearable Art Show.

Burts was recently featured in an artist showcase at Old National Centre. Before her models took the stage, the host described Burts as “passionate about bridging the gap between sculpture design and fashion while providing a platform for women of color and creating work that reflects her culture.”

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“It’s really important to me that younger black girls feel like they are allowed to express themselves and really develop their talent,” Burts said.

To the tune of “Just Another Dream,” an upbeat 1989 single by Cathy Dennis, four women moved confidently toward the crowd one by one, in streaks of bright orange, forest green, yellow and white. The donned paper cones, fringed yarn, zip ties and artificial braids.

While Burts’ ultimate goal is to design for high profile wearable art shows like Met Gala, she is grateful for the opportunity to pursue her passion regardless of where it takes her.

“There’s always so many people that regret not doing it later on,” Burts said. “Follow your passion and follow what you care about.”

Learn more about Monique Burts and see her designs from the MAGNIFY showcase in video and photos.

Jenna Watson is a visuals journalist for IndyStar. Follow her on Twitter @jennarwatson.