Q: What is your major, and why did you choose it?
The Jule’s Sullivan Calton with his look selected for display at the Gogue
A: Apparel Design and Production Management. I originally came to Auburn for Computer Science, however, during Covid, I taught myself to sew. I eventually found myself so in love with the history, process, and result of making apparel that I knew I had to pursue it!
Q: What is your favorite thing about your program?
A: I absolutely love the diversity of skills that I have had to hone to be successful in my projects. Getting the freedom to pull together skills from history, chemistry, engineering, artistry, economics and much more is so rewarding.
Q: What is your overall career goal?
A: I really would like to find myself making slow apparel. I want to make clothing for people, not temporary trends. What I am most focused on in the near future is gaining the skills and connections to achieve this. I would rather find a team already working toward this that I can fit into, but if I have to be the initial spark, I will!
Q: What has been your favorite part of working at The Jule?
A: I absolutely love the diverse set of people that come and visit. Growing up in a small town, I was limited in the types of people I interacted with. At The Jule, people from all different countries, careers and lifestyles walk through the door daily. Getting to hear about their stories really has opened me up to the world, and I feel like that in turn makes me a better person.
Q: What experience have you gained at The Jule you expect to carry into your career?
A: Outside of hearing the stories of others, the critical eye I have been able to sharpen here is much needed in the apparel world. Whether that eye is on merchandising the store or fully dissecting the art, it is truly an indispensable asset to have.
Q: How has your time working at The Jule informed your coursework or choice of major?
A: I came to The Jule the summer after my first semester in Apparel Design. While working here, I have been able to expose myself to so many different types of art and self-expression. I feel this has, on top of the personal fulfillment, lead to me to be a more well-rounded and open-minded designer.
Q: What has surprised you the most about working in an academic art museum?
A: Before working at The Jule, I did not consider everything an art museum can do besides art. Because The Jule is community-funded, it is able to be a space truly for the community. In a way, by not always focusing on the traditional art demographic, The Jule is able to bring in all types of people. This actually leads to a better appreciation of the art. After all, art is a reflection of the communities and peoples around it; The Jule allows these same peoples to freely access the art they helped create.
Sullivan’s look “The Fox,” featured at the Gogue Center, part of Auburn University’s Creative Showcase.
Q: Have you participated in any research or projects at The Jule or AU?
A: This Spring ’25 is my last traditional semester at Auburn; afterward, all I have to do is my internship. Currently, I am working within a capstone group to create a 6-look mini collection for the hiking brand ROA. I am also working on a 3-look senior collection inspired by Southern folk motifs mixed with my love for fantasy worlds. One of these looks from my senior collection, “The Fox,” will be displayed at the Gogue Performing Arts Center from Feb. 24-28, 2025 as an extension of the Creative Showcase Exhibition. This is an extension of the faculty-led exhibition that we currently have on display at The Jule!
Q: What is your favorite work of art at The Jule?
A: I absolutely loved Thornton Dial’s work, but if I had to pick a specific one, it would have to be his fishing lures. They are at the perfect intersection between utility and art for art’s sake. Looking at the 100 we had on display and getting to compare the intricacies and quirks of each one opened up a well of near endless contemplation from such a seemingly mundane object.
