Creativity to reality

A 1,200 strong crowd braved the elements to attend the 7th iD International Emerging Designer awards in Dunedin. Highlights were Natasha Johnson’s collection “Misanthropy inspired me” with a vibrancy of colour and cartoon-like imagery…

Artistic Creativity = Commercial Reality

A 1,200 strong crowd braved the elements to attend the 7th iD International Emerging Designer awards in Dunedin last week.

There were 120 entries from 20 countries. I was lucky enough to see the 26 Finalists selected by Margarita Robertson of Nom*D, Tanya Carlson of Carlson, and Charmaine Reveley.

Judges for this competition were Akira Isogawa, Margarita Robertson (Nom*D), Stefano Sopelza (Mittelmoda), Damien Woolnough editor of vogue.com.au and Tanya Carlson (Carlson).

Highlights of the show for me were Natasha Johnson’s collection Misanthropy inspired me. I loved the vibrancy of colour she used creating a splash of cartoon-like imagery. Natasha’s collection showed aspects of the human race she dislikes.

Winner Kate Bolzenello’s collection Clouded was a highlight with her transparent mesh tops and puff ball skirts creating cloud-like clothing.

The judges commented on the strong artistic influence the finalists showed, and how well their work translated neatly from conceptual to a commercial product.

The Mittelmoda prize- giving direct entry into the Mittelmoda fashion competition in Italy- was won by Marie Kelly. Her collection Look into my eyes was an artistic representation of her personal struggle with depression. Aptly dark and haunting her collection showed European influence and was extremely detailed.

Second Prize was awarded to Shenaz Engineer for her collection A Kaleidoscopic Perspective.

The Mild Red prize was awarded to Sarah Mok for her collection Ephemeral Reverie.

The Golden Centre Prize for most commercial went to Renuka Pana for her Chinese Whispers collection.

The Pacific Blue Travel prize was awarded to Julia Campbell for her Ethos collection.

The very excited and proud father of Laura Poole sat behind me in the audience and we chatted at the interval. I was not disappointed with her collection Collective 1.0. Laura was experimenting with new ways to create sustainable fashion. Once again great use of colour, beautiful fabrics, feathers and the stand out feature being the matching shoes made to complement her pieces.

The iD Emerging designer awards always provides a surprise for the crowd and this years show was no exception. Keep an eye out for the present designers I have mentioned as they will become our fashion designers of the future.

Photo credits: Chris Sullivan
Model credits: Ali McD Models Ltd

By Kirsty MacDonald, 11 April 2011.