From voicing support for Ukraine to severing ties with Russia, culture is a key component in the war against Putin, writes Eleonore Dresch.
From Demna Gvasalia's powerful Balenciaga show to the demise of artists and oligarch collectors in Europe, along with the multiple initiatives kick-started to help the humanitarian tragedy, the art and fashion world is grappling with the reality of the war in Ukraine. But the situation also raises the important question of the role of culture and the arts in times of crisis.
When the war started in Ukraine on 24 February, Fashion Weeks were in full swing across a Europe just emerging from Covid. Designers, fashion journalists and influencers suddenly found themselves in the spotlight and apologising for the frivolity of their activities amid a humanitarian crisis unfolding nearby.
Beyond expected messages condemning the war and invitations to donate to Ukraine, the fashion industry at first carried on as usual as if powerless to do more, uncomfortable with addressing the horrors of the war. Giorgio Armani’s decision to switch off the music to hold his Milan show in silence was the first official acknowledgement of the situation...Keep reading on Culture Whisper.
From Demna Gvasalia's powerful Balenciaga show to the demise of artists and oligarch collectors in Europe, along with the multiple initiatives kick-started to help the humanitarian tragedy, the art and fashion world is grappling with the reality of the war in Ukraine. But the situation also raises the important question of the role of culture and the arts in times of crisis.
When the war started in Ukraine on 24 February, Fashion Weeks were in full swing across a Europe just emerging from Covid. Designers, fashion journalists and influencers suddenly found themselves in the spotlight and apologising for the frivolity of their activities amid a humanitarian crisis unfolding nearby.
Beyond expected messages condemning the war and invitations to donate to Ukraine, the fashion industry at first carried on as usual as if powerless to do more, uncomfortable with addressing the horrors of the war. Giorgio Armani’s decision to switch off the music to hold his Milan show in silence was the first official acknowledgement of the situation...Keep reading on Culture Whisper.