Bio
Rhea Eckenrod is a designer born in Malaysia but raised in Houston, spending much of her childhood moving between the two places. This unique upbringing and love for travel sparked her curiosity about self-expression and how it takes shape across different cultures, mindsets, and moments in life.
Her creative journey began with a focus on architectural forms, which inspired her to explore the synergy between architecture and garment design. Currently studying at the University of Texas's Textile and Apparel department. She is driven by a passion for creating functional designs that do not compromise visual appeal.
Her work often incorporates techniques such as dyeing, mixed mediums, and sustainable materials. She is deeply committed to sustainable design practices and textile development, ensuring her creations are both innovative and environmentally conscious. Through these methods, she seeks to blur the boundaries between the conceptual and the wearable, crafting pieces that resonate with both personal narratives and broader cultural themes.
She continues to evolve her practice, drawing inspiration from her multifaceted background and a commitment to pushing the boundaries of textile and apparel design.
Contact
Rheaeckenrod@utexas.edu
reck02207@gmail.com
346-260-8863
Experience
Dashe, Austin, TX April 2024 - Present
Studio Intern
- Assisted the designer in all stages of garment production, including fabric sourcing, pattern making, cutting, and sewing.
- Supported the creative process by contributing to design ideation and mood board development.
- Coordinated logistics for photoshoots, including organizing garments, preparing accessories, and assisting with styling on set.
- Engaged with the brand's community through social media, outreach, and event coordination to enhance brand visibility.
Dolph Briscoe Center for American History, Austin, TX September 2023 -July 2024
Digital Collections Intern
- Crafted descriptive and comprehensive metadata for text and still images by adhering to industry standards and guidelines through the use of databases and communication with researchers to understand specific metadata requirements and preferences.
- Appointed sole responsibility for the cataloging, scanning, organizing, and delivering of digitally archived historical documents.
- Established clear communication and organization channels with the research team.
- Mastered aspects of repair and care for fragile documents, and gained a strong understanding of conservation practices.
Education
The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX May 2025
Bachelor of Science, Textiles and Apparel, College of Natural Sciences, Honors, GPA: 3.93
Minor in Architectural Studies, College of Architecture
Museum Studies, Bridging Disciplines Program
Relevant Coursework: Textiles, Apparel, Historical Apparel Collection/Exhibition, Historical Textiles and Apparel, CAD
Projects/Shows
Particles of Color Exhibition September 2023 - April 2024
- Lead researcher in the manufacturing, production, and research of biodegradable sequins. As a member of the Particles of Color collaborations with students, designers, and external companies were utilized to produce sustainable fashion materials.
- Played a key role in setting up a dedicated museum exhibition showcasing the lab's work and the pieces created, highlighting the intersection of design, sustainability, and innovation.
Chromatic Inheritance March 2023 - May 2023
- A collage and series of photographs that put the process of museum acquisition into focus through the use of a female subject that acts as both the curator and acquired artwork.
- Shot on film. The use of double exposure and Photoshop were utilized to enhance the images’ flatness and highlight the practice of concealing, particularly in the context of museum acquisition.
Skills
Technology Languages
Advanced in CAD, Photoshop, and Illustrator Beginner Mandarin
Certified in Excel, Word, and PowerPoint (2016) Intermediate Cantonese
Knitwear Photography
Expert in Hand Knitting, Crocheting, and Machine Knitting Intermediate in Capture One
Ability to work with various yarn types and needle sizes Composition
Advanced in pattern reading/writing Lighting
Post-Processing
Garment Construction Textiles
Machine and Hand Sewing Bio-textile Development and Testing
Pattern construction and reading Identification
Interests
Avant Garde Cinema Baking
Horticulture Yoga
Museum Hopping All things Croissants...