On the occasion of the 30th anniversary of the existence of Jelmez-Art, a special and personal publication was published: a book by Ildikó Debreczeni, the founder of Jelmez-Art, was published, which tells the story of a professional life spanning several decades. The volume, I Grew Up Among Rags, presents not only the story of a business, but also the life journey of a person who, with passion, perseverance and extraordinary professional dedication, built up a costume-making workshop that is now internationally known.
The book takes the reader through personal recollections from the beginning to the present day. We can learn how the story of Jelmez-Art began in a workshop in Szolnok and how over the years it has become a partner of theaters and opera houses whose productions are staged in different parts of the world. The volume also presents the challenges, decisions and turning points that have determined the development of a business, while also revealing human stories, memories and behind-the-scenes secrets to the reader.
The publication also provides an insight into the unique world of costume making. The reader can get closer to the creative process during which the costumes for a theatre production are created: from the first design ideas, through the choice of materials and patterns, to the finished costumes appearing on stage. The book recalls the everyday life of the workshop, the joy of creation and the meticulous, precise details of the profession.
The stories also reveal the community that has developed around Costume-Art over the decades. The volume is a tribute to all those who were once members of the workshop team: tailors, seamstresses, costume makers, designers and collaborators, who with their talent and work have contributed to Costume-Art being an active and respected player in the international theatre world today. Their stories, memories and joint work are also part of the journey that the book presents.
“I Grew Up Among Rags” is also a memorial to the passion and perseverance that accompanied Ildikó Debreczeni’s career. The book is not only a professional retrospective, but also an inspiring story of how a dream and a love for a craft can turn into a successful and internationally recognized work in the long run.
This publication may be an interesting read for all those who are attracted to the world of theater, the art of costume making, or are simply curious about the story of a special professional life path.
The book can be purchased in our webshop.