Call for Entries Issued in Toledo Museum of Art’s Japan: The Art of Fashion Challenge
The Toledo Museum of Art invites clothing designers to unleash their creativity in a Japanese-inspired clothing design contest that will be displayed in the Community Gallery and culminate in the Museum’s first ever “runway” closing reception.
Designers are invited to enter the contest in one of two ways: by submitting a photo or sketch of an original Japanese-inspired garment, or by proposing a design for a Japanese-inspired t-shirt. While drawing inspiration from the Japanese style, entries should also retain the participant’s unique voice.
Those entering a garment may submit a web link or photo example of previous work, or a sketch of their idea. Selected designs must be created by Aug. 16, and sketches may be included in the exhibition along with the article of clothing.
T-shirt submissions must also be inspired by the Japanese aesthetic. Designs will be printed onto t-shirts by the Museum, and winners will receive their shirts at the end of the runway show, scheduled for Dec. 27. Participants in both categories should ensure that their designs are suitable for viewing by both adults and young children.
Garment and t-shirt entries may be submitted now through 11:59 p.m. on June 23. Works will be juried. Winners will be notified on June 28, and clothing designs will be displayed in the Community Gallery from Aug. 23 to Dec. 27.
"This is the first time the Community Gallery has had a 'fashion as art' exhibition and the first time there has been a 'runway' closing reception," said Jennifer Bandeen, manager of the Community Gallery. "This is a historic happening and we are all excited about it."
The Art of Fashion Challenge has a strong connection to another upcoming Museum exhibition, Fresh Impressions: Early Modern Japanese Prints, on view in the Canaday Gallery from Oct. 4, 2013 to Jan. 1, 2014. Containing 343 pristine Japanese color woodblock prints, all but five of which are owned by the Museum, Fresh Impressions explores the importance of the early 20th-century resurgence of woodblock printmaking in Japan.
These rare, mint-condition prints will be shown alongside kimonos, Kabuki costumes, samurai swords and other objects similar to those depicted in the images.
Complete information including entry guidelines, drop-off dates and the online submission form can be found at http://www.toledomuseum.org/events/japan-the-art-of-fashion-challenge/. Questions may also be directed to the Community Gallery manager at [email protected].
|
