In a splendid showcase of artistry and innovation, the fashion world eagerly awaits the highly anticipated “Thread of Origin” exhibition, set to take place on May 26th at the prestigious 178 Bleecker Street in the heart of Soho, New York City. This groundbreaking event will spotlight the remarkable craftsmanship and storytelling prowess of emerging female designers, offering a rare glimpse into their unique perspectives and creative journeys.
Craftsmanship as a Silent Art:
The exhibition unfolds as a silent art display, inviting attendees to immerse themselves in the thought-provoking narratives crafted by these talented fashion designers. With meticulous attention to detail, each participant weaves together elements of slow-fashion craftsmanship, sharing their vision through a collection of garments and accessories that are more than mere fashion statements. Visitors are encouraged to take a moment to truly engage with the creations, to see, touch, and listen as the stories behind each design come to life.
Female Power Reimagined:
In a powerful testament to female empowerment, the “Thread of Origin” exhibition is an all-female endeavor. From the designers themselves to the dedicated production team behind the scenes, this extraordinary event seeks to redefine and celebrate the immense influence and creative prowess of women in the fashion industry. Breaking barriers and challenging stereotypes, these visionary designers demonstrate their unwavering dedication to their craft and inspire a new generation of aspiring creators.
Exploring the Designers and Collections:
Avantika Malhotra: “Whispers in the Current”
Avantika’s collection encapsulates the mesmerizing relationship between the self and the world. Drawing from her multicultural background and upbringing in vibrant coastal cities, her designs encapsulate the dichotomy of the ocean’s soothing allure and its potential to unsettle. Through her scuba diving experiences, Avantika communicates the delicate balance between comfort and fear, prompting profound conversations about personal boundaries.
Danting Liu: “Both Beast and Man Share Kin”
Danting’s designs draw inspiration from Chinese literature and movies, bringing mythical woodland creatures to life on the runway. Fascinated by the complexity of female monsters, her collection explores the duality of their existence—bravery intertwined with tragedy, revenge mingled with love. Through her intricately crafted garments, Danting delves into the blurred lines between the supernatural and human, offering a fresh perspective on strength and wisdom.
Rong Xu: “Black Spade Club”
Rong’s collection embodies the resilience and personal growth that arises from life’s transformative experiences. Through her delicate ceramics and textile bags, Rong captures the essence of embracing struggles and finding strength within oneself. Each piece serves as a tangible symbol of resilience and serves as a reminder of the beauty that emerges from personal growth and transformation.
Jenny Xiao: “Birdie”
Jenny’s artistic approach revolves around finding beauty in the ordinary and incorporating unexpected details into her designs. “Birdie” is an exploration of the dynamics between family, sports, and self. Drawing inspiration from golf and defying conventional expectations, Jenny’s collection injects unconventional, playful energy into the sport, challenging stereotypes and offering a fresh perspective on golf aesthetics.
Kyrie (Hanyong) Yang: Footwear – “DAEDAL”
Kyrie’s collection of footwear, named “DAEDAL,” serves as a testament to the intricate forms of life. Drawing inspiration from her grandfather’s work as a submarine engineer, her designs strike a delicate balance between mechanical precision and humane touch. By infusing translucent figures and hidden symbols into her shoe designs, Kyrie blurs the boundaries between art and function, celebrating the convergence of form and purpose.
Rachel Min Lee: “Weaver of the Heavenly and Earthly
Rachel’s collection, “Weaver of the Heavenly and Earthly,” pays homage to her Korean heritage and the mysticism of shamanistic traditions. By blending ancestral spirituality with contemporary fashion, her designs create a visual narrative that transcends time and culture. The garments are imbued with intricate patterns, evoking a sense of spiritual connectivity and profound respect for the rituals and customs passed down through generations.
Young Sun Moon: “Cover to Reveal”
Young Sun Moon’s collection is a powerful response to the objectification and scrutiny faced by women. Influenced by surrealist art and films, she challenges the voyeuristic gaze and reclaims control over the female body. Young Sun’s designs feature pleated and imprinted body parts, subtly revealing the shape and form without surrendering to objectification. Her collection sparks a dialogue on individual agency and personal expression.
Uniting Creativity and Empowerment:
“Thread of Origin” heralds a new era of inclusivity and diversity within the fashion industry. Other than those talented female designers, from curators to production teams, all members are female. Curator Jiajia Wang emphasizes that “Thread of Origins” encourages viewers to question societal norms, explore the richness of cultural heritage, and celebrate the transformative power of personal narratives”. Presenting the work of these talented female designers, the exhibition ignites conversations about craftsmanship, storytelling, and female empowerment, leaving an indelible mark on the fashion landscape.
Exhibition credits:
Curator: Jiajia Wang
CreativeDirector: Rachel Min Lee
Coordinator: Jenny Xiao
Production: Kyrie Yang
Photographer: Kyrie Yang