This collection of wild and vibrant patterns was inspired by the fun and funky fashion of Xanadu and the bold, energetic aesthetic of 1980s roller disco culture. Drawing from the film’s retro-futuristic neon glow, flowing fabrics, and dynamic movement, I aimed to capture the spirit of an era where music, art, and fashion collided—embracing the carefree fun, confidence, and unapologetic charm of kitsch.

Kitsch (noun): Art, design, or objects that are considered tacky, gaudy, or overly sentimental, yet often appreciated for their nostalgic, playful, or ironic charm. It is characterized by bold colors, exaggerated forms, and a lack of subtlety, embracing a sense of fun, excess, and campy aesthetics rather than aiming for highbrow sophistication.

The design process began with hand-drawn and digital sketches, exploring dynamic shapes and compositions that echoed the era’s playful, electric energy. I then refined these patterns in Adobe Illustrator and Adobe Photoshop, experimenting with color palettes, pattern orientation, and repetition to fully embrace the unmistakable vibrancy of the ‘80s.

This project was created during my MFA in Visual Communication Design at Jacksonville State University as part of the Pattern Design course with Jamie Runnells (Spring 2020).