Fashion has always been a reflection of culture, identity, and innovation, with designers drawing on heritage while exploring futuristic ideas. A growing trend, particularly in countries like Russia, China, and Japan, involves blending traditional aesthetics with modern, tech-based designs. This creates a striking contrast between the past and the future, offering a fresh perspective on cultural heritage in a rapidly evolving fashion landscape.
Merging Heritage with Tech-Based Fashion
In Russia, designers are integrating traditional elements—such as intricate embroidery or heritage patterns passed down through generations—with contemporary silhouettes and advanced technology. For instance, modern collections may feature smart fabrics that regulate temperature or incorporate wearable technology, transforming garments into functional pieces of art. This fusion not only preserves the essence of Russian culture but also positions these designs as forward-thinking and globally relevant.
The key to success lies in this careful balance: maintaining a connection to heritage while pushing the boundaries of fashion innovation. This idea resonates with what can be achieved by African designers, especially in terms of blending rich cultural roots with futuristic design concepts.
In China, designers are achieving global recognition by incorporating traditional elements—such as Hanfu clothing or Chinese calligraphy—into contemporary fashion. These designs resonate with international audiences while maintaining a strong connection to cultural roots. This strategy of balancing tradition with modern appeal is something that African designers can adopt.
Billie Eilish - What Was I Made For? (Official Music Video) 13 July 2023
Meaning of the Song:
The song "What Was I Made For?" by Billie Eilish, featured in the Barbie movie, delves into themes of self-discovery, questioning one's purpose, and the struggle to conform to societal expectations. In the context of Barbie, it reflects the emotional journey of characters trying to reconcile external pressures with their inner desires for authenticity and individuality. This resonates with anyone who has ever felt conflicted about their identity or their role in the world.
In the music video, Billie Eilish’s simple and introspective presentation—working on doll clothes—emphasizes fragility and the feeling of being shaped by forces outside oneself. This subtle representation of being "crafted" by external expectations aligns with the existential questions posed in the song.
The song’s haunting melody and reflective lyrics deeply resonate with those questioning their identity and purpose, and its universal message makes it relatable to a broad audience. It echoes the broader message of personal transformation and breaking free from limiting societal norms.
Diary Entry - 18 October 2024
Today, I wrote to the copyright attorney about my painting "Lover of Vladimir to Embrace" (2024), wanting to bring kitsch art back into our houses with a calendar for next year. I need to get the print copyrighted, but I’m feeling unsure about the process—what steps I need to take, and how to protect it. But then I thought, why am I stressing so much? It’s just art, Pieter. ART!!
My mind wandered today to Vladimir Tretchikoff. I did some research on him. His painting "Chinese Girl", also known as the "Green Lady", became iconic as kitsch art, but I found out that the model never received compensation after it made him globally famous through its mass-produced prints. I couldn’t help but reflect on that—would it have been fair to help her, and by that logic, should he have helped all the others?
Tretchikoff’s story fascinates me. His journey—leaving Russia, being cold and lost in China, and eventually finding his way to South Africa—feels almost personal, as though in some strange way, he came to heal me. Some dismissed his art, but it reached the hearts of many.
I’m feeling a bit lost myself today. Maybe it’s the weight of hope that feels like it’s slipping away, or maybe it's just a day where everything feels like it’s moving too fast, and I’m standing still. The city of summer is warm, but it’s like love and interest have faded with time.
Am I the only one still working? Come on, Jesus, look busy—You’re on the way.
We’re all waiting for the election.
Pieter Lategan With "Lover of Vladimir to Embrace" (2024)
- Pieter Lategan 18 October 2024 19:32 Pretoria South Africa
