By Amber Ford, The Mountain Times
A resident of The Mt. Hood Villages since 2002, seamstress and clothing designer Sierra Levesque has found her artistic and creative visions, thriving in the mountain community she calls home. A self-taught artist within the clothing design community, Levesque’s unique pieces derive from recycled material in which she finds continued value and beauty. “As someone who has always tried to fit in, I think my clothes gave me the confidence to stand out,” Levesque said. “I make loud, weird, bright colorful clothes and I think everything I make reflects that,” Levesque added.
Having dabbled in various other forms of art, Levesque found her unique and creative niche among the colors, fabrics and designs that create an aesthetically beautiful and comfortable fit. “I have tried just about every form of art, but I love building and making things, and sewing gives me the freedom to do it all,” Levesque said.
Acknowledging her unique visions when it comes to pattern, fit and the overall theme of a piece, Levesque lends credit to circumstance for her particular interest in this form of art. “After living on a tiny island in the Caribbean for five years with very limited access to just about everything, it was easier to learn how to make clothes than to try and import anything,” Levesque said.
Although there are many inspirations for her work and ideas, Levesque also draws inspiration through the work of others. “I am inspired by upcycled and one of a kind artists,” Levesque said. “I think people are challenging the idea that luxury goods have to be big-name, but rather earn the luxury title through the artisans’ honed skills and ability to create something unique,” Levesque added.
Levesque credits fellow designers and seamstresses, along with her Caribbean island life for the motivation needed to demonstrate this artistic passion of hers, but when it comes to her creative vision that inspires patterns and colors, Levesque acknowledges the beauty of her hometown and how she incorporates it into her vision. “Physically and visually, the mountain is so inspiring,” Levesque said. “I love working with heavier fabrics and making something functional and fun. The mountain silhouette always finds its way in my work,” Levesque added.
For those interested in Levesque’s work, please visit @sew.svml on Instagram. Levesque will also be participating in the art show at Coffee House 26 on Friday, 5/2, 5pm-8pm.