REMIX 2019 Finalist
Name: Hüseyin Özer
Country of Residence: Turkey
University: Burg Giebichenstein University of Art and Design Halle, Germany
Inspiration: When I saw natural light shining through the stained-glass windows at the world heritage site Hagia Sophia, I was mesmerized by its beauty. This experience formed the foundation of my REMIX collection, which would pay homage to Hagia Sophia’s aesthetic excellence and intricate beauty.
The architectural delight that is Hagia Sophia is a reminder to the fashion industry that something, if well-constructed, can last a lifetime or even longer. And it is our responsibility to create, build, design and live responsibly. Imposing ancient icons such as the Hagia Sophia weren’t built only to be demolished 10 years later, just as fashion shouldn’t be created to be thrown out after one season. This is irresponsible and something I, and my REMIX collection, reject.
My interpretation of Hagia Sophia’s stained-glass window is my proclamation for more longevity in the fashion industry, and for our responsible handling of the planets resources. This collection tries to give a new perspective, bringing the theme: Responsibility into fashion with sustainable and natural quality fabrics.
In an attempt to recreate the Hagia Sophia’s beauty, I used a range of vibrant coloured furs of fox, mink and raccoon. The furs used were provided with bright colors in environmentally friendly processes. In order to create not only an optical but also a haptic structure, the materials were put together by inlaid work techniques. Those techniques combine furs of different species and colors as well as furs with leather and fabrics to create the stained glass-like effects. Mastering this technique requires great tools, experience, knowledge, imagination and understanding of aesthetics.
My REMIX collection is a sign of great appreciation for the noble material that is fur, and, if it is processed in a similar way, with as much appreciation as an ancient stained-glass monument, then we can create new magnificent creations which last a lifetime.