Fairfield Fashion Runway

“I USE FASHION TO TALK ABOUT POLITICS”  

Dame Vivienne Westwood

The Seed of Hope Collective and Think+DO Tank Foundation invite you to The Fairfield Fashion Runway.

For two years, the Seed of Hope Collective — our resident community of local Arabic-speaking women tailors, embroiderers, weavers, artists and cooks — has been working with fashion designer Melanie Gillbank to create garments reflecting themes of Land, Motherhood, Spirituality and Futurism. The women have also collaborated with ceramicist Idil Abdullahi to create handmade ceramic adornments that connect back to materiality and women’s work.

The result is a speculative, wearable experience braiding history, culture, and feminism in a vibrant display.

This December, we’re putting on a show to celebrate these amazing women and their stunning creations. Paired with performances, the evening will be a rich mosaic of traditional culinary delights.

These special garments are all stitched together by threads of love, showcasing both the individual designers, and the power of communal bonds. Each piece will be presented by Mothers, Aunties, Sisters, and Friends.  

Alongside the fashion, we have meticulously curated performances to build on the themes explored in this unique project. First up will be an opening performance by Kuku Yalanji choreographer and performer, Henrietta Baird.

Our house band on the night will feature none other than Palestinian brothers, Majdi and Seraj Jelda who will be sharing Palestinian songs and music. They will be joined by Hussein Kahil, Mohammed Lelo, Mustafa Altayar and Drummer Girl Ann-Maree.

They will perform beautiful music that evokes the SWANA region, their ties to home, as well as a special collaboration with the Seed of Hope Choir. Cellist, Catalina Dermenjian will perform a solo set that speaks to her Armenian heritage, connecting motherhood to power and protection. Pa777ience will create an intimate vocal  set that responds to the garment Spirituality. Into the evening Dj Djinn will take us on a journey with familiar sounds and new possibilities.

Attendance is free. Donations are welcome!

Dinner, signature drinks, and handmade wearables will be for sale on the night all by the Seed of Hope Collective at Think+DO Tank Foundation.

All food served is halal, with vegetarian and vegan options available.

Places are limited please RSVP for free via Humanitix.

DATE: 07/12/24

TIME: 6-9pm

LOCATION: Sapphire Venue Level 1, 5 The Crescent, Fairfield