Fashion as a space for connection
From the very beginning, “The Young on the Runway” has been based on mutual support among artists. Instead of the traditional commercial production model, it introduces the idea of exchange: participants collectively build their portfolios, gain experience and create networks of contacts. Photographers produce photo shoots, designers present collections, models take part in the show, while those involved in make-up, graphic design or video editing develop their skills through practice.
We exchange positive energy, good practices, experiences, contacts and skills. We have created this event so that young creators could get to know one another better and collaborate in the future
– explains Ewelina Sawicka, curator of the show.
Many of those involved in the project joined through personal connections and recommendations. The organisers emphasise that a community of young creators has begun to form around the event in a very natural way.
To show the process, not just the final result
During the event, six collections created by students and graduates of art schools, among them the Strzemiński Academy of Fine Arts in Łódź, will be presented. The designers showcasing their work include Alicja Dynowska, Klara Grzywacz, Anna Krasodębska, Zuzanna Sitko, Roksolana Zaritska and Rafał Lewandowski. Each collection will be preceded by a short video dedicated to its creator.
We visited them in their homes, so that people could see that fashion is not necessarily something inaccessible. Most of us do not have the funds to commission professional workshops, so we sew on our own machines. Designers spend an enormous amount of time on this, using their own resources, because no one pays them, they do not receive funding for materials, not even from their schools
– adds Ewelina.
In addition to the finished outfits, participants will also be able to view an exhibition presenting the behind-the-scenes process of creating the collections. It will include sketches, mood boards, drawings, designs and material samples, which can be examined up close and even touched.
No imposed theme
The organisers deliberately decided not to impose a single overarching theme on the designers. As they explain, their primary focus was on authenticity and creative freedom.
It is difficult to present your work outside the internet, where there is an overwhelming amount of content and it is not easy to attract attention. When you see the fabric or texture up close, observe the models, their make-up and the way they move to the rhythm of the music, it is a completely different experience. This gives artists a greater chance to stand out from the crowd, distinguish themselves and gain recognition. Today, authenticity sells best!
– explains Ania, producer of the “The Young on the Runway” show.
As a result, the show is intended to become a collection of highly diverse aesthetics, emotions and stories, united by one element – creative honesty.
The show, exhibition and afterparty
The programme will begin with the official opening and fashion show. This will be followed by the exhibition and an opportunity for participants to talk to the creators. The evening will conclude with an afterparty featuring DJ sets prepared by young people from the academic community.
The entire event will take place in the Willa café-club in Poniatowski Park – a venue chosen deliberately by the organisers. Its intimate atmosphere is intended to encourage conversation, integration and the building of relationships between artists and audiences.
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Contact:
- Anna Kuśmierz (producer) | akusmierz2909@gmail.com
- Ewelina Sawicka (curator) | ewelina.sawicka@edu.uni.lodz.pl
Event on Facebook: FASHION SHOW | MŁODZI NA WYBIEGU | WILLA
