Fantastical Nature On Show At Third Annual Sydney Wearable Art Gala
Image: Supplied
Sydney’s Enmore Theatre is set to transform into a gala as more than 120 participants from TAFE NSW Design Centre Enmore and other creatives prepare to feature imaginative pieces at the third annual Sydney Wearable Art Gala (SWAG) this month.
“Wearable art requires our students to think outside the box, push boundaries and their creativity to the limits. We’re proud to be training the next generation of skilled professionals who will help keep our theatres, festivals, film sets and cultural events thriving across NSW,” said TAFE NSW Director of Culture, Art and Design, Richard Cass.
The two-night event centres on a Supernature theme, encouraging up-and-coming Inner West designers to think of looks influenced by the natural world, but reimagined with a touch of fantasy and plant-based inspiration. Original pieces have been submitted to six categories, awaiting judgment by a panel of industry professionals. Additionally, there are Young Achievers Awards for individuals between 16 and 20 years of age, as well as a Grand Swagger award for the best standout design in the show.
Murray Cook, the original Red Wiggle, hosted the 2024 SWAG. In addition to Cook, industry experts were present, such as Kirsten Junor, a recycling and sustainability expert; Rene Rivas, a celebrated costume designer; Tim Chappel, an Academy Award-winning costume designer for The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert; and Jenny Kee, a renowned fashion designer.
SWAG participants
Olivia Lewis, a TAFE NSW Enmore student who left a corporate marketing job to pursue a career in design, is displaying a piece inspired by pollen under a microscope.
“I wanted to switch into a career that makes me happy,” said Lewis. “Designing for the Sydney Wearable Art Gala has really challenged me and it has been great to have time to experiment, think and create… I’ve been busy sewing, needle felting, crocheting, and melting fabrics to see how the materials react.”
For many participants, it’s their first time creating something intended for a live audience, and their first insight into what a career in the fashion world could look like.
Chris McWilliam, a TAFE NSW Enmore student and part-time engineer, will be modelling his very own 1.46 x 1.46 metre lily pad headpiece creation at SWAG.
“I was told bigger is better, so I took that seriously,” McWilliam said. “I’ve been working in a desk job for the past couple of years, so I wanted more hands-on skills. The Certificate III in Live Production has been really rewarding. I’ve enjoyed the practical subjects, particularly learning about lighting effects and working with different art materials. It really gives you more appreciation for what goes on behind the stage.”
“NSW needs more skilled designers, makers and production technicians, and TAFE NSW is stepping up to meet that demand,” said NSW Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education Steve Whan.
“Events like this give students real industry experience while showcasing the creativity and innovation that will drive our cultural industries into the future.”
This year’s SWAG’s host and guest judges have yet to be announced. The gala will take place on 26 and 27 November at 7:00 pm at Enmore Theatre, with tickets available now.
For each ticket sold, $5 will support Father Chris Riley’s Youth Off the Streets, a charity dedicated to addressing homelessness.
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