Biography
William Mäkelä is a creative and educator. He is an adjunct faculty member in the Fashions Studies Department at Columbia College. After receiving a degree in English Literature, specializing in British Literature/Shakespeare, it was natural for him to think beyond the pages of the Bard and towards the history of the clothes. With an eye to the past, he has been heavily influenced by photo’s his Grandmother kept from the 1930’s and 40’s. Having grown up in the northern suburbs of Chicago his family, on both Mother and Fathers side, are founding members of the towns they come from. This has always made him aware of the historic important of his past. “When you know part of your family is in a museum, you think about the traditions they once did; their way of life.” He says. So, learning techniques from the past to live on in the present; the way his family did years ago can keep him up at night. William has always felt a connection to the past; he says it is in his blood. Shoe maker, dress maker, and tailors can all be found in his direct descendants. Working and creating with his hands has always been part of his life. Whether it is painting, sewing, creating embellishments for everyday life, or recreating a 1760 hat, William loves the process and the learning that comes from each project. Understanding how something was done before the age of technology allows that process to live in a age where is should not have lived. Old couture hand sewing techniques, hand tailoring methods, the reinvention of a historic garment in modern times, all honor those who created before him. In some way it forges the way to the future. William is well rounded when it comes to Fashion design. He had worked in the capacity of designer, cutter and pattern maker. He works with private clients making wedding dresses, or as milliner. He teaches draping, pattern making, garment construction and the ever popular millinery. The art of hat making, to this day, is firmly grounded in techniques of the past, and this is what appeals to him the most. He learns what others have forgotten.
Illinois State University, BS, English Literature
Instructional Areas
Pattern Making and Garment Construction, Historical and Modern
Creative Practice and Research Interests
Men's Work wear. Couture Sewing Techniques and Construction.
Degrees
A.A., Oakton Community College 1992
B.S., English Illinois State University 1994