Hi, I’m Omaya Simler.
"Clothes make a statement. Costumes tell a story." — Mason Cooley
Every day, I strive to tell the stories of myself and others. A needle and thread are all that’s needed to have a novel’s worth of words.
My Artist Statement
My costume design work has everything to do with the past; a walk through my life and the lives of those who came before me. Memories are important, whether they are delightful or disagreeable. I like to design and craft clothing that holds onto these memories and shares their stories with the people around me. I often find that other people have a tremendous capability for empathy when stories are described and showcased.
Simple Ideas
When I started my journey at the University of Idaho, I found myself changing in ways I couldn’t anticipate. It led me to question the life I had lived before coming up to Moscow, Idaho. I realized how much bigger the world was and how many wonderful things there were to appreciate. Respecting my past and memories, but choosing to grow and heal from them using my passion.
Lasting impact
I take my empathy into the projects I create. I prefer natural fibers with a low environmental cost. I also see the value in recycling synthetic materials into new creations. It’s important to me that they don’t just sit in a landfill, but give new life to items that might otherwise be thrown away.