Field Notes from the Threads of America
Field Notes from the Threads of America (FNftToA) is a graphic design thesis project, exploring the complexities of American life and identity through conversation, participation, research, clothing decoration, and spatial design.
Through the course of research, over 30 unique individuals shared their American experience through form submissions and conversations facilitated by me. These stories, images, and words were then carefully curated, collaged, and decorated onto American-made, second-hand, workwear garments. Processes included hand-painting, pin button design, sewing, dyeing, and collage of materials.
Faculty Mentor // jenn Stucker
2026 BFA Thesis Exhibition @ BGSU
2026 CURS Research Grant Recipient
2025–26
From San Juan, Puerto Rico, to Archbold, Ohio, to Hermiston, Oregon, it's been an incredible experience for me— I hope you feel similarly.
When all of these stories and experiences are woven, collaged, and placed onto the same garments, what narrative does it guide for the diversity and evolution of American life? —one of the research questions that has guided and grounded this project.
Through the past 7 months, I've not only found love in creating these pieces, but also in reading and studying the submissions. I appreciate you all for sharing, and trusting me with your stories and images— it's been beautiful handling them the past few months.
There are so many people to thank: my family for the support, specifically my dad for helping with the scarecrow structures, my mentor, jenn Stucker, the CURS Research Grant for facilitating & funding, the entire BGSU GD Faculty for the support over the years, my friends, and of course, all of the participants and visitors of FNftToA :)
Much Love,
Blake Rupp