DEBORAH MCKENDRICK evolved as a designer in Western Australia the 1980’s with the success of the icon fashion label ‘Eldorado’ with partner Brett Pollock, (1987-1997). Coming from a Graphic Design background she was heavily influenced by Pop Culture and the idea of the Global Village. Deborah was fascinated by the application of image on fabric and decoration of the human body, which still remains a major influence in her work today. Eldorado established a retail outlet in King St Perth, which became a hotbed of creative energy and productivity.
Seeking further horizons for her personal development, Deborah launched into a career as a freelance designer with the main focus on Costume Design and Theatre Arts. During this period she worked on numerous productions with choreographer Chrissie Parrott. Culminating in the success of ‘Coppelia’ for the Western Australian Ballet Co., for which Deborah was nominated for Best Costume Designer in the Helpmann Awards. Other commissions include the Festival of Perth (PIAF), Sydney Festival of Dreaming, Indigenous Festivals and many other local productions and independent artists.
Deborah continued her involvement in the fashion industry by designing couture fashion collections and jewellery, which sold to a select group of private clientele. She also developed her interest in drawing and painting whilst studying Visual Arts at Edith Cowan University. This period re-ignited her passion for all things visual and artistic and the need for the realization of them within her own art form.
In late 2008, Deborah returned to her first passion and love, the fashion industry, with the launch of her new label Velvet Sushi ‘Luxury Loungewear’. This is Deborah’s first solo collection in which she celebrates the landscape of female form and the simplicity of line.