UMVA has learned that a groundbreaking fusion of art and fashion took place at a recent gala event in the city, where designer Happy Andrada showcased a 30-piece collection inspired by the works of renowned artist Juvenal Sansó.
The event, themed "Art inspires fashion," was held at Dicovery Primea and featured Sansó's artworks on display and on sale, courtesy of Galerie Joaquin. The gala was not only a celebration of creativity but also a fundraising activity for the Fundacion Sansó, which supports art students from several local universities.
Andrada's collection featured one-of-a-kind barong bibs, conceived as gender-neutral pieces with a universal fit, embodying both inclusivity and craftsmanship. The designs incorporated traditional Filipino materials like piña, indigenous weaves, and accented with appliques, beading, and embroidery.
Some of the standout pieces included a skirt made of layered cloth resembling book pages, with a bib featuring a Sansó floral painting rendered in fabric. Another outfit showcased a bib with fabric cut into strips, curled and twisted to resemble smoke, while a third featured a skirt made with iridescent black fabric that shimmered like a beetle's wings.
The collection also featured striking ensembles, such as a gown executed in glossy white sheer fabric streaked with blue, evoking one of Sansó's seascapes. A male model wore a binakol bib bearing the same seascape, while another model sported pants made of traditional Ilocos and Abra fabric in a vibrant jade green shade.
For the show's finale, models held gilt frames, placing the Sansó details of their clothes within the frame, creating a stunning visual effect. Andrada revealed that working closely with Sansó's art made her notice details she had not seen before, such as textures and color usage, which she was able to translate into her fabric designs.
Fundacion Sansó director Ricky Francisco praised Andrada as a kindred spirit, whose work is deeply rooted in Filipino culture while remaining contemporary and internationally relevant. The partnership between the foundation and Andrada showcases the boundless creativity of Sansó, who believed that art is an integral part of human life.
The fusion of art and fashion at the gala event has left a lasting impression, highlighting the innovative spirit of both Sansó and Andrada. This unique collaboration has not only pushed the boundaries of fashion but also celebrated the richness of Filipino culture and creativity.
