Willie Norris uses the power of language to create clothes that protect and empower her community
In The Know visited Norris's workshop to learn about her creative process and speak to West Dakota, Z Walsh and Michael Umesiobi, about the designer's commitment to creating clothing for her people
Video Transcript
[MUSIC PLAYING]
WILLIE NORRIS: I like to be as direct as humanly possible. And language allows that in a very exhibitionist way. I always say the words are right in front of you.
I'm Willie Norris, and I'm the Willie in Willie Norris workshop. The word style to me means a no holds barred approach, and hold on your humanity. It's very, very efficient. It's really good for testing out new ideas and just getting stuff out of your head. I use words a lot. I like to be confrontational in what I make. I really think that language is all we have to truly understand our feelings and communicate with those around us.
When I use this buzz word "community," what I mean is I'm creating clothing for my people, for the people that are around me, the people that I see out. And it's very important to me that I provide something that is accessible to queer people. Starting a business for the people around you is a actionable way to defend yourself and the people in your life.
