Unveiling the Future of Fashion: A Creative Revolution in the Making
In an exclusive revelation, we bring you the inside story of Kering's groundbreaking initiative, CRAFT (Creative Residency for Artisanship, Fashion, and Technology). This ambitious project, led by the visionary artistic director of Gucci, Demna, and the renowned Chinese couturier, Guo Pei, aims to propel the next generation of Chinese creative talent into the spotlight.
But here's where it gets controversial... Kering, in partnership with Shanghai Fashion Week, has assembled a diverse 12-member advisory board to guide this initiative. The board includes industry heavyweights and influencers from both China and Europe, each bringing their unique expertise to the table.
Demna, known for his fascination with China's creativity and innovation, expressed his excitement about supporting emerging Chinese creatives. He believes they will shape the future of fashion, a bold statement that sets the tone for this initiative.
Guo Pei, on the other hand, sees this collaboration as an opportunity to bridge the aesthetic gap between East and West. An intriguing prospect, don't you think?
Over the next few weeks, this advisory board will select a final cohort of around 10 residents for the program's inaugural edition. Applications are open until March 1st, with the chosen participants set to be unveiled during Shanghai Fashion Week from March 25th to 31st.
Kering CRAFT, as the French luxury group puts it, aims to strengthen its support for emerging talent and foster closer ties between Chinese and international creative communities. The program will span across Milan, Paris, and Shanghai, offering a unique cross-cultural experience.
The jury, an eclectic mix of industry leaders, includes Cai Jinqing, Dennis Chan, Camille Charrière, Susan Rockefeller, Hung Huang, Lv Xiaolei, Simone Marchetti, Miranda Qu, Carla Sozzani, and Zang Yingchun. Each brings a wealth of knowledge and a unique perspective to the table.
And this is the part most people miss... Kering believes that the collective expertise of this jury will ensure a rigorous and inclusive framework, mentoring, and a cross-cultural approach, all aimed at supporting the next generation of talent.
Lv Xiaolei, responsible for repositioning Shanghai Fashion Week as a key industry event, sees the CRAFT program as a gateway to connect more Chinese creative talent with the world.
Kering promises a residency that offers hands-on learning, expert mentorship, and cultural exchange, ultimately aiming to support the emergence of Chinese brands with a global resonance while staying true to their local culture.
So, what do you think? Is this initiative a step towards a more inclusive and diverse fashion industry? Or is it just another corporate venture? We'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!
