UTICA, Minn. — Winona County’s most notable drag queen, Ethan Mundt, known onstage as Utica Queen, won the first challenge on the new season of the New York-based “Project Runway” television show. She created a sleek black velvet jumpsuit with a cape. It looked villainous. Said celebrity judge Heidi Klum: “It wasn’t just the clothes but a feeling.” Another judge, Law Roach, noted a few visible inadequacies, including a hem on the cape. But about the outfit overall, Roach said: “A beautiful job. Bravo, my love.” The three-in-one piece — headpiece, glove and cape — was conceived and seamed in competition with 11 other designers against a deadline. Utica Queen said she wanted to capture “the drama, elegance, and power I love to create on the runway.” The episode’s theme: “Disney Villains vs. Disney Princess.” The show was the launch of the 21st season of “Project Runway” on the Bravo network.
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Mundt. Grew up outside Utica, population 260, in western Winona County. Graduated from St. Charles High School. Her drag career began as a party performer in the Twin Cities. Her reputation grew with appearances on “RuPaul’s Drag Race.” Now relocated to Chicago.