By Kathy Chouteau
NIAD Art Center’s Fashion Class designers will take center stage when its hosts “The Way We Are Now,” a Fashion Exhibition Aug. 17 to Sept. 20 and a Runway Event Sept. 14 from 1-4 p.m., at its Richmond home.
Together, the theme of the exhibition and runway show is a strong and expansive sense of self, according to NIAD, which stated, “Fashion has the power to affirm and transform: What we wear tells a story about who we are and who we might one day hope to become.”
Throughout the last year, Fashion Class participants have filled numerous clothing racks with expressive outfits, theatrical costumes and wearable art, according to NIAD. Along the way, artists were challenged to experiment with materials for their work and draw inspiration from personal histories, pop culture, and future fantasies.
The culmination of their efforts is set to debut in a multifaceted gallery experience organized by Studio Director and Fashion Facilitator Shantanice Swain.
NIAD said that the runway event on Sept. 14th will include dance, opera and spoken word performances, as well as the artists presenting their own creations on the catwalk.
Artists participating in “The Way We Are Now” include: Heather Hamann; Shana Harper; Raven Harper; Shantae Robinson; Heather Copus; Deatra Colbert; Maria Radilla; Karen May; Julie MacDonald; Robin Rakoczy; Jonathan Valdivias; Alice Sampson; Richard Naranjo; Carlota Rodriguez; Esme Silva; Julio Del Rio; Felicia Griffin; Christian Vassell; Halisi Noel-Johnson; Jason Powell-Smith; and Arstanda Billy White.
The schedule of events for “The Way We Are Now” is as follows:
The Opening Reception for the Annex Gallery Exhibition is Sat., Aug. 17 from 1-4 p.m. Learn more: The Way We Are, Now: NIAD Fashion Illustrations
A Trunk Show will occur Sat., Sept. 14 from 1-4 p.m. featuring one-of-a-kind textiles, jewelry and wearables, as well as NIAD T-shirts and merch.
Artist Performances will take place Sat., Sept. 14 at 2 p.m. and will include dance by NIAD artist Heather Hamann, an opera recital by Kaya Davis and spoken word by Dorian Reid.
A Runway Event will happen Sat. Sept. 14 from 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. and will include 21 NIAD artists wearing one-of-a-kind designs by fellow NIAD artists. Emceed by facilitator Kate Laster; Tunes by NIAD Studio Director and DJ Liam Golden; and hair and make-up by NIAD facilitator Terri “Champagne” Moore. Food will be available.
NIAD Art Center is located at 551 23rd Street in Richmond. Learn more here.
