MFA Fashion Thesis
After a twelve-year journey toward completing a lifelong goal of earning an MFA in Fashion, I have begun my thesis process. This page documents the development of my research paper, the design of a contemporary women’s fashion collection, and preparation for the culminating exhibition at Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum.
Inspiration image created in Midjourney.
This inspiration video marks the beginning of my thesis research, rooted in an exploration of my Norwegian heritage. In 2017, I discovered that my great-grandmother, Anna, was a skilled dressmaker in Norway—a revelation that deepened my understanding of both her story and my own creative lineage.
Using Hans Dahl paintings, my family’s migration narrative, and early explorations of folk-art-inspired fashion, the video establishes the conceptual and emotional foundation of the project, introducing themes of preservation, adaptation, and cultural identity expressed through dress.
Building on this initial exploration, I used artificial intelligence as a conceptual tool to test and visualize possibilities for the thesis collection. I transformed a family photograph of my great-grandmother into an animated film depicting her dressmaking practice, using the medium to imagine a broader narrative of Norwegian artisans and the contemporary fashions that could be inspired by their work. Created through a combination of AI-based applications and refined using Adobe editing tools, the video allowed the project to move from abstract idea to tangible form.
Seeing the concept come to life affirmed the viability of the thesis direction and led directly to a research trip to Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum in Decorah, Iowa, where I participated in an embroidery course, attended Nordic Fest, and conducted museum and library research.
With the start of the Fall 2025 quarter, I formally began work on my thesis proposal. I assembled my thesis committee, developed a written prospectus, and presented the project for Candidacy Review. My project proposal was approved. With approval secured, I am now moving into the research phase of the thesis. A concise version of the proposal is available here.
While in Decorah, I was offered the opportunity to present my MFA thesis exhibition at Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum in the Commons. Serving as the backdrop for an innovative and contemporary fashion collection, the Commons will house the exhibition for approximately two months, beginning November 7, 2026.
Collaborating artisans, sponsors, family, and friends will be invited to a private preview on November 6, 2026, which will include my formal MFA thesis presentation and a celebratory gathering in advance of the public opening.
Save the Date card was created in Gemini, ChatGPT & Canva. Original fashion design by Tammie Pontsler
Sponsorship
You are invited to support the realization of Threads of Migration, an MFA thesis project and exhibition exploring Norwegian-American cultural heritage through contemporary fashion. Community sponsorships directly fund essential elements of the collection and exhibition, including mannequins, artisan collaborations, and research-related costs. The progress shown reflects current support toward these specific needs, and contributions at any level play a meaningful role in bringing the work to life.