On display at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, the bag collection chronicles the artist’s personal and professional journey
Designer and photographer Rafael Bertacini presents one of his projects at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, in the United States. Available until July 31st, the exhibition is a collection of six artistic bags. Using unconventional materials in the industry and cutting-edge technology, each bag chronicles his process of self-discovery and acceptance as a gay man. This work not only highlights your skill as a designer, but also reflects your personal and professional journey.
Born in São José do Rio Preto, in the interior of São Paulo, Rafael demonstrated a passion for the arts and a desire to express his identity from an early age. Freely exploring the spectrums of his femininity and masculinity, he faced a social context that did not favor children’s freedom of expression. He channeled this need for expression through manual labor, a practice that intensified due to symptoms of hyperactivity that were never treated in childhood.
Throughout his career Rafael has served in various roles, such as postgraduate research assistant at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, art director and photographer at Approve Streetwear and brand and communications intern at L’Occitane en Provence. He has collaborated with Instagram influencers, singers and actresses such as: Jade Picon, Gabi Lopes, Leo Picon, Tata Estaniecki, Laura Castro, Clau and Marcella Maia. Furthermore, he photographed campaigns and products for clients such as: Lojas Riachuelo, Spa L’Occitane, Kopenhagen and TRUSS Professional.
The current exhibition, titled “Beyond Borders: Handbags as a Narrative of Divergent Self and Identity,” explores various aspects of fashion. The collection is dedicated to storytelling, with each bag serving as a testament to the designer’s journey of self-discovery and healing. Furthermore, it is also divided into three acts: Configuration, Confrontation and Resolution, with each act presenting a subcollection that reflects its trajectory.
This project was developed for his master’s degree and was completely designed and financed by himself, using 3D modeling and 3D printer, laser cutting machine, reusing discarded bags, non-traditional materials: Tyvek, plastic seals (zip-tie) , parachute rope, etc. The project was supported by its advisor, Professor Michael Burton along with committee members, Dr.ᵃ Sandra Starkey and Dr.ᵃ Mary Alice Casto.
In addition to being on display, Rafael’s work was awarded a Student Research Days Fellowship (Arts and Humanities) by the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, NE, recognizing the excellence and innovation of his project.
In September 2024, Rafael will take a new step in his brilliant professional and academic trajectory by starting a second master’s degree at the renowned University of California-Davis. With a prestigious scholarship, known as the Provost’s Fellowship, he will continue to expand his horizons and contribute significantly to the field of arts and design.
About the exhibition:
Visitors can explore the collection in the halls of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln Department of Textiles, Merchandising and Fashion Design through July 31. The bags are displayed, accompanied by detailed explanations about their concepts and materials.
It is available to view worldwide and can also be viewed via the website: https://brtcn.co/beyond-boundaries-handbag-collection
About Rafael:
Master of Fine Arts in Design
University of California-Davis, Davis, CA;
Master in Textile Art, Merch. Fashion Design (Material Culture and Textile Studies)
University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL) and Bachelor of Design (Industrial and Graphic)
University of São Paulo (USP).
Social media:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rafaelbertacini/
His work can be found online at https://brtcn.co/home