Shivangi Sinha
Hulu’s ‘Project Runway’ is all about delivering your best under intense pressure while keeping your creative spark alive. While some contestants take a little time to find their rhythm, others step in with confidence and clarity from the start. In season 21, Ethan Mundt proved to be one of the latter as he hit the ground running and made a strong impression right from the first challenge. It quickly became clear that his talent ran deep, and what viewers saw was only the beginning of what he was capable of.
Ethan Mundt Impressed the Judges With His First Creation
Ethan Mundt made a striking impression from the very first challenge of the season. Assigned to a team with the theme of “villains,” he delivered a look that impressed both his peers and the judges. His design was lauded for its intricate details, including the dramatic use of lace, a veil, and even nails added to the model’s look for extra flair. Judge Nina Garcia was especially impressed and said she could see herself wearing the garment. His win in the challenge earned him the power to switch one teammate for another and he made a strategic move by trading Antonio Estrada for Madeline Malenfant.
However, the second challenge brought new hurdles. Focused on creating an athleisure look, Ethan’s team unfortunately landed at the bottom. Although the judges agreed his individual design was the strongest of the group, they criticized him for failing to maintain a cohesive vision for the team overall. He acknowledged the misstep, admitting that he should have been more involved in guiding his teammates’ work instead of solely focusing on his own. Rather than letting the setback bring him down, he took the feedback to heart and returned with renewed determination for the challenges ahead. His journey on the show quickly became one of growth and reinvention and showed not just what he was capable of, but how open he was to improvement.
Ethan Mundt is a Beloved and Renowned Drag Artist and Performer
Ethan Mundt’s foray into the world of fashion and performance began with a passion for cosplay during his high school years in Utica, Minnesota. While attending St. Charles High School, he became actively involved in theater and began crafting costumes for himself, which sparked his interest in design and creativity. This growing passion led him to pursue costume design and art at Hamline University, where he studied theatre production and liberal arts. In 2017, he graduated with a bachelor’s degree and was ready to chart his own path. Alongside his academic pursuits, Ethan ventured into the world of drag and drew inspiration and mentorship from fellow drag performers who helped him shape his stage persona.
Thus, Utica Queen was born, a vibrant, theatrical, and fashion-forward identity that would become synonymous with his growing fame. His talent and creativity gained national attention when he was announced as a contestant on ‘RuPaul’s Drag Race’ season 13 in December 2020. His presence on the show showcased not only his skills as a performer but also his exceptional eye for design, which earned him a dedicated fan base.
Continuing to expand his creative reach, Ethan launched his first solo art exhibition in December 2021 at the Rochester Art Center. Titled ‘Homecoming Queen: The Wonderful World of Utica Queen,’ the show featured self-made garments, original sketches, editorial photography, and even a documentary film. The exhibit, which ran until February 2022, was a testament to his multifaceted artistry. Now based in Chicago, Illinois, Ethan continues to thrive as a designer, entertainer, and prominent figure in the drag and fashion communities. With a steadily rising profile, he is recognized as a creative force that is just getting started.
Ethan Mundt’s Friends and Family Are His Biggest Sources of Strength Today
Ethan Mundt has found unwavering support and encouragement from his parents, Robert Duane and Susan Melinda Mundt. They have remained a vital part of his journey, and he has expressed immense pride in his ability to portray his true self and life authentically. Beyond his success on stage, Ethan has become part of a strong sisterhood of fellow drag queens who regularly turn to him for fashion consultations, designs, and alterations. Known for his artistic eye and meticulous craftsmanship, he has worked closely with other celebrated queens, including Daya Betty, Willow Pill, Denali, and Kahmora Hall.
In addition to drag and design, Ethan explores the world through abstract art. His visual artwork, often filled with bold colors and layered symbolism, has been showcased publicly and reflects his distinct creative spirit. His talents have earned recognition from major platforms, including being featured in Vogue, highlighting his growing influence in both fashion and queer culture. Ethan also frequently engages with his fans through meet-and-greets, performances, and public appearances. These moments reflect not only his charisma and warmth but also his gratitude toward the community that supports him.
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