Project Q Fashion Show, a moment that changed the Illawarra arts scene forever
On the last night of July, a line of divas formed outside of Van Q on the corner of Crown and Keira. This show was a culmination of the Illawarra’s finest and most creative minds put into Action.
Organised by James Windle, Monty Colwill, Felix Wylla, Quirine Van Nispen, Jasper Eames and Phoenix Lally this was an ambitious project and an extraordinary example of a full send.
Project Q is an arts and fashion show for designers in the Illawarra to show their work. A space like this has been missing for a long time so it was welcomed with open arms, all tickets sold out and people standing shoulder to shoulder in VanQ.
Monty Colwill, designer and organiser working with grunge aesthetics embracing imperfection, rebellion and raw emotion said that her favourite moment was minutes before the runway had begun.
“The energy in the room was incredible. Seeing everyone who had come to support everyone involved was so special,” she said.
I asked Monty, “What was the process of getting ready for the show like?”
“Organised chaos. I had a lot of roles on the night from installing artworks to getting my models ready, so there became a collaborative effort between everyone,” she replied.
“Everything felt quite surreal and then it was already over. We had begun the initial stages of the show early January of this year and there was a lot of conversations and changes of direction.
“This process was challenging but incredibly rewarding going forward.”
Reflecting on the show, Monty explained that “a comment I received as feedback after the show was that there was so much joy felt after leaving.”
“This led to a conversation where the phrase ‘living truthfully in a collapsing world’ was brought up.
“I feel this encapsulates everything we’re trying to achieve with this project. We’re already in the stages of curating the next show and are looking forward to collaborating with even more talent.”
Jess from Limp Zine agreed that this show was a big moment for Wollongong, stating that “this is a huge occasion for the Wollongong creative scene, as there's not often a space to showcase fashion, and we really have VanQ to thank for it!”
Moreover, local writer Kirsty Hammermeister said “seeing what’s possible is so important as a young person.”
One of the many highlights of the night was a sword fight that occurred between the models from House of Squire. The garments from this collection featured real handmade chainmail with models looking like they just walked out of a Monty Python movie.
After the show, DJs played amazing sets full of Ninajirachi and bouncy high BPMs. Models, designers and attendees all boogied together drinking up the last of the complementary wine.
It was my pleasure to attend this event as a photographer, some of my favourites are pictured here. Watch what Project Q is getting up to and you will be a part of something truly amazing happening in the Illawarra art scene.
Visit mollyroseduggan.com/photography for more.
