THE ISLAND OF SARDEGNA BRIDGING ANCIENT TRADITIONS WITH CONTEMPORARY FASHION
In an era where the fashion industry evolves rapidly, reconnecting with our roots and embracing sustainability is more crucial than ever. In 2023, I embarked on a transformative journey deep into the Amazon to learn from the indigenous Yawanawa people. Known for their profound spiritual connection to nature and rich cultural heritage, the Yawanawa tribe warmly welcomed me into their world. Their way of life, intertwined with the natural environment, became the heart of my latest fashion collection.
Central to this collection are playful sketches created in collaboration with the entire community of IskuVakehuhu, a language and cultural school in the heart of the Brazilian Amazon. These sketches aim to capture the essence of the spirit through art, blending seamlessly with contemporary fashion.
The Story Behind the Japanese Coat
Deep in the Amazon rainforest, surrounded by the profound connection of the Yawanawa people to nature, I found a transformative gift: the Spirit and a newfound trust in myself. It was here, during an eight-hour boat trip through the lush greenery, that I began crafting the second prototype of the Japanese Coat. As I worked on this coat, I was overwhelmed by a sense of abundance and creativity. With each hand stitch I added, I felt a deep, intimate connection to the fabric and to myself. These moments of craftsmanship were more than just a process—they were a celebration of being truly present and connected. To honor this experience and share the joy of craftsmanship, I reached out to family and friends from around the world. Together, we infused the inner lining of the coat with our collective spirit. Each sketch we added was a token of our shared joy and a tribute to the art of handcraft.
I firmly believe that those who embrace this special item of craft are part of something enduring and meaningful. This coat is not merely a piece of clothing; it is a testament to the magic of joy and a symbol of our collective creativity. As we weave together a new generation of handcrafted artistry, we do so with open hearts and a deep connection to ourselves. This coat carries with it a legacy of spirit and craftsmanship, linking us all in a beautiful tapestry of tradition and innovation.
Digitized by Nicole Wogg, a talented collage artist from Austria, these artworks were printed on vegan silk by Stephanie Klaura, head of the Textile Technology Department at the University of Applied Arts in Vienna, preserving delicate details in a modern format.
Sustainability is at the core of our project. Lodenwalker, a beacon of Austrian tradition since 1434, generously supported us with their exquisite handcrafted loden from Schladming. This collaboration honors their rich heritage and our shared vision for a sustainable future. Renowned for meticulous craftsmanship and dedication to traditional wool processing techniques, Lodenwalker exemplifies our commitment to sustainability.
The “Japanese Coat,” inspired by Iva Ivanova’s designs, symbolizes the fusion of Japanese simplicity with diverse cultural narratives. Its clean lines evoke a sense of infinite freedom, enhanced by CenzoCocca’s modern textile embroidery. Working in Sardinia, CenzoCocca integrates contemporary embroidery techniques with traditional craftsmanship, complementing the coat’s straight cuts.
Paulina Herrera, a Chilean architect with a passion for textiles, collaborated closely with Sardinian weavers to incorporate traditional craftsmanship into our coats. Inspired by Sardinia’s landscapes, belts woven with village women feature hues from lush greens to coastal greys and vibrant flower tones. Customers can adapt the coat to their preference, reflecting individual style.
Photographers LUCIO ARU and FRANCO ERRE beautifully captured the collection’s visual storytelling, highlighting intricate details. Sardinia, with its feminine energy and marine influences, provided an ideal backdrop, nurturing the project’s creative journey. This island’s spirit infuses our collection, connecting us to ancestral legacies and natural elements.
Join us in celebrating this blend of ancient traditions and contemporary fashion. Together, let’s honor the past, embrace the present, and envision a sustainable future in fashion.
“My vision is becoming reality. Bringing together diverse cultural backgrounds through our shared love for craftsmanship transcends differences. We unite to visualize and express our inspirations and perspectives. Life’s beauty deserves artistic expression. As an artist, I share my unique perspective.”
Founded on trust, this project embodies dedication to artistry and unity.
With Love, Iva Ivanova