Royal Academy of Antwerp Masters Show 2024
We’re back in Antwerp, a city renowned for its deep connection to fashion, beyond the glitz and cameras, and closer to the essence of the craft in studios and classrooms. The Royal Academy of Fine Arts of Antwerp once again hosts its annual fashion show, a testament to the talent of its students. Each year, the Academy surprises and impresses with the creativity and skill of the young designers, showcasing why its legacy in fashion remains unparalleled.
Fashion can be appreciated in various ways. Some may follow it casually, keeping up with trends and gossip; others engage more deeply, observing industry movements and strategies. But for those who truly love fashion, it’s an intrinsic part of the human experience, deserving of attention and respect for the creators who dedicate their lives to it. Each fashion capital has its unique vibe; some are flashy, while others are understated. Antwerp belongs to the latter category, embodying genuine care for the craft and a deep interest in the stories behind the designers’ creations.
The Royal Academy is the birthplace of this creative energy, its influence extending globally as its alumni reshape the industry. This impact is evident each year as crowds gather at the Waagnatie Hall to witness the hard work and passion of the students. The four-year classes present their creations in a show that feels more like a concert, culminating in the final hour with the master’s graduate collections. This year’s event added an extra break, enhancing the experience for attendees.
This celebration of fashion includes not only enthusiasts but also the students’ friends and families, who cheer loudly for their loved ones. This supportive community embodies the ideal environment for fashion, one that values and celebrates the creators’ efforts.
This year, the graduating class consists of eighteen students, an increase from last year. Before their runway showcase, the usual Expo was held at the Academy’s main building, allowing the public, press, and jury to view the students’ installations and hear them explain their collections. The jury, including notable names like Kiko Kostadinov, Dilara Fındıkoğlu, and Kris Van Assche, awards the best works. Dries Van Noten, though not a jury member, also engaged with the students, providing valuable insights.
This year’s collections stood out for their emotional depth. Unlike the previous year’s focus on technical aspects, this year’s designs conveyed personal experiences and emotions. Jinny Song’s “Mother’s Milk” explored maternal love and generational trauma through layered fabrics and traditional Korean knitting techniques. Sofia Rodriguez Rodriguez’s “Broken Tooth” delved into nightmares with imaginative designs, while Pommie Dierick’s “Wild Horses Run Free” transformed stripes into liberating, unique patterns.
Byeongho Lee’s “Behind Pagoda” reinterpreted his neighborhood with futuristic elements inspired by Blade Runner 1987, using everyday materials like rubber boots and aprons. Yuhei Ueda’s “Still Life” created a sensitive, minimalist collection, attaching personal memories to his work with natural fabrics and workwear techniques.
As Brandon Wen, the creative director of the Fashion Department, expresses in his editor letter in the annual 1+1=3 students magazine: “We should all be making more noise and celebrating when there are beautiful and imaginative things. If you see something that inspires you, you should jump up and scream.” And for the students and the true essence of fashion, we do just that.
