ITS 2020 explained episode 17: How to translate Jackie Nickerson’s photography into fashion, by Sarah Michal Workeneh.

Sarah Michal Workeneh was selected as a finalist for ITS 2020 with her collection “Between Land and Subject”

A series of photos by photographer Jackie Nickerson, entitled ‘Terrain’, inspired Sara’s collection. The series documents a typical working day of farmers from Africa, living traditionally and far away from modernism. The photos respect and value the hard physical work, the connection to nature and to its natural resources. From this connection a new aesthetics is created. Sara took elements from these aesthetics and tried to develop them in a new, modern way that would be relevant for today. She chose a refreshing colour palette while combining simple materials used by the farmers such as shade cloth, thick ropes and wooden poles. Most of these materials are uncommon in fashion and were recycled.

International Talent Support was launched in 2002 and throughout its history it has developed into the most highly recognized platform to showcase & support the strongest young talents on the planet. Most importantly, it created an ever-growing family supporting creativity, like branches on a tree growing in different directions, yet nurtured by the same roots. It has built an impressive Creative Archive, a unique collection tracing the history of fashion evolution. Many of the over 630 finalists were selected by top fashion brands where they now hold key positions, or have successfully developed their own lines.

Discover more about Sarah Michal’s ITS 2020 collection

Discover more about ITS 2020

Discover more about ITS