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 on instagram
reck02207@gmail.com
346-260-8863
Experience
Freshman Research Initiative, Austin, TX [January 2025 - Present]
Mentor
- Mentored first-year students in conducting authentic and impactful research projects, fostering their development in material development.
- Encouraged a multidisciplinary approach to biomaterials research, integrating principles from materials science, physics, chemistry, and biology to advance innovative solutions.
- Guided students in effectively communicating their research findings through presentations and publications, contributing to the broader scientific community.
University of Texas, Austin TX [August 2024 - Present]
CAD Teaching Assistant
- Provided one-on-one support during office hours, guiding students in mastering CAD software for fashion illustration.
- Assisted in developing technical skills, including digital sketching, rendering, and design presentation techniques.
- Reviewed student projects, offering constructive feedback to improve technical accuracy and creativity.
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.
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 Certificate
Relevant Coursework: Textiles, Apparel, Historical Apparel Collection/Exhibition, Historical Textiles and Apparel, CAD
Projects/Shows
DASHE FW 2025 “Metanoia” [December 2024]
- Assisted backstage with styling and garment preparation.
- Collaborated on the production of runway garments by pattern cutting, sewing, and hand-embellishing pieces to achieve the designer's vision.
- Coordinated photoshoot logistics, including scheduling, model preparation, and on-set assistance to streamline the creative process.
- Supported the overall execution of the show through detailed planning and hands-on contributions.
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.
Creative adaptability Adobe Suite Pattern Making Dyeing
Resourcefulness CAD Fashion Illustration Embroidery/Hand Sewing
Attention to detail CLO 3D Hand & Machine Knitting Crocheting
Teamwork Capture One Garment Construction Textile Testing/Identification