Katherine Soucie

(zero.O.lab) was a collective of artists, designers and creative thinkers creating opportunities to redefine fashion through zero waste concepts and interventions.

Using collaboration as method for exploration and dissection on fashion production and consumption, the (zero.O.lab) served as an incubator into the conversation between art, fashion, and the zero waste reuse of discarded and obsolete textiles and technology.

(zero.O.lab) The label was established in 2010 as part of my MAA thesis research project at Emily Carr University in partnership with My Sister’s Closet, a social enterprise thrift store run by the Battered Women’s Support Services (BWSS) in Vancouver.

This upcycled fashion label was collaboratively produced through the (zero.O.lab) residency program and focused on exploring zero waste dyeing and reconstruction methods using unsaleable clothing and textiles donations to the charity. The label was launched at Eco Fashion Week 2011 and sold at the Yaletown thrift store location, alongside second hand clothing on display.

(zero.O.lab) Research explored concepts that aimed to expanding zero waste practices blurring the lines between art and fashion.

(zero.O.lab) Manifesto, 2011

Written by the (zero.O.lab) incubator collaborators: Katherine Soucie, Chan Tao, Shannon Lazzarotto, Corey Mah