The captivating unsettling Fihavanana collection finds its roots in the Malagasy concept of togetherness, echoing my dual Swiss-Malagasy heritage. It explores the duality of identity and its connection to collective memory by breathing new life into discarded leather, raffia fibers, and intricate silhouettes.
This collection fearlessly challenges fashion's pursuit of perfection by celebrating the raw beauty of leather's imperfections, symbolizing life's constant evolution. Each of the five leather jackets is a testament to sustainability, crafted from deadstock materials, remnants, or scraps, each with a unique story.
Raffia, a cornerstone material, holds deep cultural significance in Madagascar, where artisans hand-weave it, resulting in patterns and textures that mirror life's natural variations. Through this craft, I explore the transformative power of personal connections, nostalgia, and memories, elevating the mundane into expressions of identity.
This collection seamlessly blends the artistry of Malagasy and Swiss traditions, guided by elements of science fiction. It reflects on the impact of colonial history and African roots on our perception of the body.
Drawing inspiration from works like Octavia Butler's "Kindred" and Ridley Scott's "Blade Runner," it delves into the complex interplay of race, memories, and identity. The collection navigates the uncanny realm of memories, where the familiar and foreign merge, creating fresh experiences from past echoes.
