ArtWalk, breathing life into Colombo’s creative scene...
In a bold move to encourage homegrown creativity and freedom of expression ArtWalk returns to the scene in a collaboration with the Colombo Design Market. Pooling their resources both ArtWalk and Colombo Design Market offer a platform for designers and artists to showcase their creative talents.
The Floating Market in Pettah will host the Colombo Design Market by day and in the evening ArtWalk will bring the runway to life. Seemless synergy of art and design will be exhibited by ArtWalk as runway models become living canvases for the artists’ expression. The brainchild of Anjuli Flamer Caldera, ArtWalk has seen four successful installments and now returns for its fifth show which is billed as groundbreaking.
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ArtWalk 2015, built around the concept #LoveYourSelfie, will showcase how the digital realm has created diverse markets as a result of countless individuals communicating and expressing themselves through a wide range of media. A platform for creative expression with no set boundaries or limits on what can be showcased on the runway ArtWalk encourages freedom and ‘big ideas’ and as a result many designers who had debuted previously have gone on to create holistic creations, design labels and businesses which has only enhanced the event’s impact on the creative industry in the country.
What prompted you to organise ArtWalk?
When I graduated from university and moved back to Sri Lanka I noticed there was an apparent gap in the market of graduates transitioning into the professional realm. There were limited options to experiment and gain exposure and experience in the creative industry. There were no projects for young people to discover who they really were and what they wanted to become. I founded ArtWalk to bridge this gap.
How would you define this event?
A fusion of design and art on the ramp. The models will act as live canvases for creative expression. ArtWalk is a bold showcase that provokes thought and empowers emerging talent. This is our biggest and most transforming production to date. It is a collaborative event with Colombo Design Market, the aim of which is to share our creative platforms (retail and showcase) with emerging designers and artists to offer a complete end solution in the market.
What can people expect to see at ArtWalk?
ArtWalk showcases media that goes beyond the limits of purely fashion and art. On the runway, there will be a mixture of paintings, sculptures, recycled or upcycled pieces, photography, film and even food art.
Why did you choose the Floating Market as a venue for ArtWalk?
It is a stunning urban space that is teeming with undiscovered potential. The Floating Market in Pettah is in line with ArtWalk's tradition of unveiling and transforming unique venues and attracting influential audiences to spur development and generate opportunities for neighbouring communities.
How perceptive do you think Sri Lankans will be towards an event of this nature?
Based on past experience, our audiences have always been very supportive and open to our initiative. We do push boundaries, but it has always been well received.
As a person immersed in the fashion and creative industry how do assess the future of creative design in Sri Lanka?
I think the future is extremely bright. Every year I am absolutely astounded by the creative prowess displayed by the participants and their ability to create new markets. The industry is rapidly evolving and it is a very exciting time to be in Sri Lanka to witness this revolution. The hope and need for this creative generation is to receive as much support and encouragement as possible and this is what we aim to facilitate.
What do you want a consumer of ArtWalk to take away from the event?
We want the consumer to be filled with the power of possibility and empowered by the confidence and creativity displayed at the event.
The Colombo Design Market will run through the day from 10am to 8pm while ArtWalk’s runway show will be between 7.30pm -10pm on Saturday October 24 at the Floating Market in Pettah.
Interviewed by Tina Edward Gunawardhana
Photographs courtesy ArtWalk
0 Comments
Ranjith says:
Oct 24, 2015 at 12:00 amAdam Flamer Caldera tries to look hip and cool, but fails miserably.