POWERHOUSE MUSEUM: Future Fashion

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Re-imagined Indigo outfit,
repurposed denim, Japanese boro cloth, indigo dye, designed
by Cate Caldis, Soltyslabel, 2022

To mark its 30th anniversary, theĀ  Powerhouse Museum unveils a new exhibition from.the 30th June. Future Fashion, an annual exhibition spotlights the next generation of design talent featuring original works of graduates from fashion and textiles. Serving as a compass for the fashion industry, the exhibit highlights shifting ideas, concepts and sustainable processes embraced by top students from four Sydney-based fashion design schools.

Touch Down Collection, comprising Touch Line Dress and Play On Gloves, triacetate jacquard,
satin, cotton, embroidery,
designed by Holly Villagra, 2022
Photo: Natasha Killeen

The works being shown have been curated on the high distinctiimon achieved through story based concepts and high-level technical skills, and includes creations by,Ā Cate CaldisĀ (Fashion Design Studio TAFE NSW, Ultimo Campus),Ā Jason ClarkĀ (University of Technology, Sydney),Ā Edwina HardingĀ (Whitehouse Institute of Design) andĀ Holly VillagraĀ (Torrens University / Billy Blue College of Design).

(L) Kullu Karishma Double Circle Skirt and Assymmetrical Blazer,
(R) Hydrangea floral print dress and Kullu Karishma open bust blazer,
designed by Jason Clark, 2022
Photo: UTS Fashion

Reflecting the influence of the Australian fashion industry on the cultural and creative industries sector, this year’s exhibition will also feature designs by notable alumni, including Dion LeeToni MaticevskiMichelle JankClaire Tregoning from P.E. Nation, and Lyna Ty from Song for the Mute. Iconic pieces from the Powerhouse collection include Dion Lee’s Look 39 from his Fall 2020 collection and an evening gown designed and made by Toni Maticevski for the 2011 Powerhouse Museum International Lace Award.

ā€˜Since the first exhibition in 1993, Future Fashion has continued to embody the Australian fashion industry’s responsiveness to significant social and cultural trends. This exhibition demonstrates Powerhouse’s continued focus on supporting Australian designers at pivotal stages of their careers,’ said Powerhouse Chief Executive Lisa Havilah.

(L) Doreen Dress, digital print on linen and silk blend, laser cut stretch neoprene, lace trim, silk organza with custom-made mesh lace applique. (R) Amor bodysuit and Reptila dress, digital print,Ā recycled polyester/spandex, silk organza with custom-made mesh lace applique.
Designed by Edwina Harding, 2022Ā 
Photo: Bella Edstrom

ā€˜The students’ original textile prints and designs are some of the highlights of this year’s display. From hand-painted artwork for a hydrangea print and Garden of Eden-inspired snakeskin embroidery to the bold applique of football jersey numbers on an evening gown and the delicacy of silk garments dyed with plants and herbals, each student’s work is testament to the schools’ fostering of self-expression and experimentation.’ said Future Fashion curator Glynis Jones

POWERHOUSE LATE: FUTURE FASHION

On 13 July 2023, Powerhouse will be presenting an evening dedicated to the designers featured in Future Fashion as part of its Powerhouse Late program. Highlights include hands-on workshops, artist talks and a design-focused panel discussion with Cecilia Heffer (University of Technology, Sydney), Holly Villagra and Edwina Harding.

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