Name: Kimberley Elizabeth Busato

Birthday: 8 February 1979

I am currently a 4th year Honours History student at the University of Waterloo. Having begun my post secondary journey in 1998, this is my second attempt at completing my BA. From 1999 to 2007 I tried my hand at many things and endured many life changing experiences. I completed a diploma in Technical Theatre production and another in Hairdressing and worked for a handful of professional theatre companies throughout Southern Ontario. Despite being creatively challenged in these endeavors, something was missing – a balance between a need to create and intellectual fulfillment. In going back to school I am attempting to find that niche.

Academically I am interested material culture – mostly clothes and other means of physical adornment. Much of my study so far has focused on evolution of military dress. To compliment this study I have also been making replica military uniforms for reenactors – something which I have been doing since 2002. In time I would like to broaden my study, but the muse and opportunity have not yet presented themselves.
A lifelong crafter, I enjoy working in all media. I began my artistic journey in fine art – drawing and painting. Despite the enjoyment that I derived from these activities, I felt restricted by a static 2 dimensional canvas.

I was intrigued by textiles a fashion from an early age. Loving dress up and playing with colour. I soon came to see clothing as a mode of expression. Sometimes wearing as many as four dresses at a time (as a child), I’ve tried it all… sometimes regretfully.

Failing to learn to sew at an early age, I finally picked it up in my early twenties while attending Sheridan College and studying technical theatre production.

I am by no means a typical fashionista. I casually observe current trends, but ultimately I create and wear what makes me happy. I love long, asymmetrical forms and heavy jewelry. Designers and ateliers that I adore include Issey Miyake, Myco Anna, and Anne Marie Chagnon.

In my own work I love to work with bold and contrasting colours and textures. Mostly I make accessories, purses and hats. They allow me to work small, spend time on small details and composition and they can work for anyone irregardless of size or shape.

I don’t worry about being classic, there are plenty of designers who already do that. In my work I want to create a feeling or tell a story. Having gone through periods of illness and hardship I have really come to understand the emotive power of colour.