This photograph by Powerhouse Museum photographer Marinco Kojdanovski shows the Speedo LZR Racer ‘UPcycle’student collaboration currently on display on level 2 of the museum. The Museum’s photographers routinely photograph exhibitions and displays for record and publication purposes.
The Speedo LZR Racer worn by swimmers at the 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing was the most technologically advanced performance swimsuit ever produced. With its ultra lightweight woven nylon elastane fabric, ultra thin low drag panels and ultrasonically welded seams it delivered the optimum streamlined shape. However so many records fell and so fast were the times that controversy arose over whether the suit was aiding swimmers times leading to FINA’s decision to put new rules in place banning full length bodysuits. Rather than discard the obsolete suits Speedo Australia set up this exciting project with Fashion Technology students at Macquarie Fields College TAFE SWSi to upcycle the swimsuits into new designer garments. On display is the original Speedo LZR racer swimsuit and eight new designs by TAFE students.
The Speedo LZR Racer ‘UPcycle’student collaboration will be on display at the Powerhouse Museum on level 2 until mid-December 2011.
Glynis Jones
Curator fashion & dress
Design & society
Photography by Marinco Kojdanovski
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