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Janet Kang

Lecturer

Bio

Janet Yang (née Kang) (she/her) is an artisan with a passion for slowing down the fashion industry. With over 13 years of experience in the field, she enjoys exploring garment construction, craftsmanship, and couture handwork. Her work pushes the boundaries of what already exists and invites us to reimagine together.

Janet earned her Bachelor of Fine Arts from Parsons the School of Design, where she focused on Communication and Product Design. After working with clients such as Macy’s, she decided to pursue Fashion Design at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. After working at David’s Bridal, Nordstrom, and ikram, Janet returned to SAIC as an instructor in the Fashion Department, sharing her knowledge with future generations.

As a teacher, Janet is all about inspiring her students to find their joy. She encourages experimentation and curiosity, while also making sure her students gain the skills to design and construct beautiful garments. In her classes, like Intro to Fashion and Construction I, she loves seeing students dive into hands-on projects that stretch their skills and imagination.

Outside of the classroom, Janet stays active in the art world, supporting and collaborating with fellow artists and creatives. She also reimagines garments for private clients, slowly reimagining how we relate to fashion and our clothes. You’ll also find Janet attempting to keep up with her three children. Her current obsession is boxing and plans to compete this year. 

Courses

Title Department Catalog Term

Description

This is an introductory look into fashion. Students will explore basic design skills
and processes, and work with various materials used in constructing garments. Both traditional and non-traditional materials will be explored through techniques and exercises related to the body. Students will learn how the tools and equipment for hand and machine sewing functions, and its role in constructing garments. A critical overview of fashion introduces students to various practical and theoretical approaches to understand and explore fashion within an art context.

Class Number

1354

Credits

3

Description

This course offers foundational methods of draping, pattern drafting, and construction techniques to build garments. The students learn how to develop a set of slopers, consisting of bodice, sleeve and skirt, combining and integrating draping and pattern drafting methods. Through these methods, the students develop and construct design concepts, first in muslin, then in fabric; stressing the importance of proper fit and craftsmanship. No pre-req.

Class Number

1427

Credits

3