Fresh from representing Australia in Eurovision 2024, Zaachariaha Fielding, one half of the dynamic duo Electric Fields, has captivated audiences once again—this time at Australian Fashion Week. The Aṉangu Pitjantjatjara Yankunytjatjara (APY) artist showcased his artwork on garments designed by the acclaimed Australian fashion house, Romance Was Born, creating an otherworldly experience that left spectators in awe. Zaachariaha Fielding Stuns at Australian Fashion Week with Romance Was Born Collaboration
Set designer Chantel Covey-Lane crafted a stunning oversized moonscape for the runway, complete with live visuals that transformed the space into an eclectic, otherworldly universe. The “Nothing” collection, which served as a beacon of hope for a utopian world where all existences are celebrated, debuted amidst this mesmerizing backdrop.
Three central moons provided the perfect stage for models to cascade through, adorned in the eclectic designs that epitomized the cross-cultural collaboration between Fielding and Romance Was Born.
First Nations model Em Stenberg opened the show, setting the tone for a night of groundbreaking fashion. Fielding described the moment as “a beautiful, goosebump” experience, expressing his newfound enthusiasm for the fashion world.
“It was a beautiful, goosebump moment to sit front-row and see my creations reworked on the finished garments,” Fielding told Style Up. When asked about the collaboration, he shared that he’s “a little bit hungry for the fashion world now.”
Inspired by both Western and Aṉangu perspectives, the showcase highlighted the convergence of these two worlds. Aṉangu culture is grounded in ‘Tjukurpa’, a belief system that elucidates the physical world and dictates the relationships between people, plants, animals, and the land’s features, contrasting sharply with the Western world’s emphasis on individualism.
Drawing from his extensive travels, Fielding integrates elements from the places he visits into his art. When asked what First Nations art means to him, Fielding succinctly responded, “accept, acknowledge and release.” These three words encapsulated the essence of the “Nothing” collection throughout the runway show.
Romance Was Born is renowned for transforming its collections into incandescent fashion paradises. The collaboration with Fielding was a natural choice for designers Anna Plunkett and Luke Sales, who praised his energetic and visceral paintings that honor the visual language of his ancient culture.
“We love Zaachariaha’s energetic and visceral paintings that honor the visual language of his ancient culture,” said the visionaries behind Romance Was Born. “His iconography reflects his unique energy and way of being, which exudes generosity of spirit and a love and curiosity for his Country.”
Fielding’s artwork was brought to life through expert experimentation with delicate tulles, chiffons, and satins, contrasted with sturdy woven and embroidered textures. Embellished with supernova sequins and intricate beadwork, these components shone brightly on the dreamscape runway.
Among the attendees was Cindy Rostron, who captivated the crowd in an archival Romance Was Born gown. Other notable guests included Thelma Plum, Sam Harris, and Nathan McGuire, all of whom witnessed the intergalactic and futuristic fashion spectacle.
As Fielding continues to embrace new opportunities, we eagerly anticipate his next move and keep our eyes peeled for his potential pivot into the fashion world.
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