Nanga Mai

An introspective pattern collection for intimates and sleepwear incorporating motifs from Australian Indigenous “Dreaming” folklore. Inspired by hypnagogia, the state of mind between sleep and wakefulness. The meaning of Nanga Mai is “to dream” in Gadigal First Indigenous dialect.

Digital Pattern Application • NCSU Design • 2018

Final Textile Designs

The patterns in my collection are graphic, modern, and playful. The aesthetic finds discipline in the jumbled musings of nighttime. The collection responds to the the unexpected and tumultuous thoughts that lead into slumber, but respects the order and cadence of the sounds of sleep. 

The swirling dots and dashes in Aboriginal “Dreaming” artwork remind me of the moment of “hypnagogia” before sleep when my thoughts are spiraling and running into each other, as I try to relax and make sense of the day. The motifs emanate the rhythm of my brain at bedtime.

Mood • Inspiration • Client

My client is a woman looking for easy, effortless intimates and sleepwear. When she is at home she wants to feel comfortable and playful; not voyeuristic. She wants her everyday intimates to feel thoughtful.