He is also a professor at Duke University, where he teaches art and design classes.
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The Art of Runaway Clothing
Runaway Clothing is a clothing brand that has become a staple in the Durham, North Carolina area. The brand’s unique style and aesthetic have captured the hearts of many, and its presence can be seen throughout the city. From murals to album art, Runaway’s influence can be felt in various forms of art and design.
The Artist Behind the Brand
Gabriel Eng-Goetz, the founder of Runaway Clothing, is a multifaceted individual with a passion for art and design. As a professor at Duke University, he teaches art and design classes, sharing his knowledge and expertise with students. Eng-Goetz’s work is not limited to his academic pursuits; he is also a prolific artist, creating murals, album art, and other visual projects that showcase his creativity.
The Brand’s Unique Style
Runaway Clothing’s style is characterized by its bold and eclectic mix of patterns, colors, and textures. The brand’s designs often feature abstract shapes, geometric patterns, and vibrant colors, which have become synonymous with the Durham area.
The Art of Community Engagement
Eric Eng-Goetz’s work is deeply rooted in community engagement. He believes that art can be a powerful tool for building connections and fostering a sense of belonging among community members. Through his projects, Eng-Goetz aims to create a sense of shared experience and collective ownership.
The Power of Public Art
Public art has the ability to bring people together and create a sense of community. Eng-Goetz’s rainbow window treatment at Hayti’s Stanford L.
The first brick is the Hayti Heritage Center, which is a symbol of the community’s resilience and strength. The second brick is the Durham Performing Arts Center, which represents the city’s vibrant arts scene. The third brick is the Durham Central Park, which symbolizes the city’s connection to nature and the outdoors.
The Iconography of Hayti and Durham
The Hayti Heritage Center, located in the heart of downtown Durham, is a striking example of the community’s resilience and strength. The center’s design is inspired by the traditional Haitian architecture, with a mix of modern and traditional elements. The building’s exterior features a unique blend of colors and textures, creating a visually striking façade. The interior of the center is equally impressive, with a large atrium that serves as a gathering space for the community. As we walk through the center, we notice the various centerpieces of each rainbow “brick.” The first brick is the Hayti Heritage Center itself, which is adorned with a Haitian voodoo symbol at the finial atop the steeple.
The Power of Community-Based Participatory Research
Eng-Goetz’s work is rooted in the principles of community-based participatory research (CBPR), a methodology that empowers communities to take ownership of their own research and decision-making processes.
Identity is a complex web of cultural, social, and personal influences that shape who we are.
The Complexity of Identity
Eng-Goetz’s work often delves into the intricacies of identity, but he is acutely aware that his own identity is not the only one worth exploring. As a researcher, he recognizes that his work involves communities he is not a part of, and he has learned to navigate this challenge.
Understanding the Importance of Identity
Identity is a multifaceted concept that encompasses various aspects of a person’s life, including their cultural background, social status, and personal experiences.
Eng-Goetz, a renowned fashion designer, had been working on the brand for over a decade. He had built a loyal customer base and had gained recognition for his unique designs.
The Rise of Runaway
Runaway was founded in 2009 by Eng-Goetz, and it quickly gained popularity for its edgy, avant-garde designs. The brand’s early success was largely due to Eng-Goetz’s ability to create clothing that was both stylish and provocative. His designs often featured bold graphics, striking colors, and unconventional materials. Key features of Runaway’s designs:
- Bold graphics and striking colors
- Unconventional materials
- Avant-garde silhouettes
Runaway’s popularity continued to grow throughout the 2010s, with the brand becoming a staple in the fashion industry.
At the end of our interview, he hinted that the best is yet to come. “I do have a project that will bring me back closer to Durham’s community in the near future,” he says with a smile. “I just can’t speak on it yet.” Reach Reporter Chase Pellegrini de Paur at chase@indyweek.com. Comment on this story at backtalk@indyweek.com.