Latest news with #Afro-futurism
Scotsman
16-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Scotsman
GenZ sensation and gospel musician Joel Baraza electrifies the crowd at the Aberdeen Fashion Show, taking home Outstanding Artistic Contribution Award.
Aberdeen radiated more than the glow of its famed granite skyline—pulsing with innovation, artistry, and the collective heartbeat of a city uniting for fashion, culture, and change. It was the 15th annual Aberdeen Fashion Show, orchestrated by the visionary Dr. Lydia Kemunto Cutler and the Fashion Art Media Group. This was not just a runway spectacle—it was a movement! Proving that style is not just seen, but it can transform in the way it is felt and lived. Since its inception in 2010, the Aberdeen Fashion Show has stood as a beacon for young, underrepresented designers, offering them a voice, a future, and a launchpad into the national spotlight. Over the years, this vibrant initiative has evolved into a nationwide platform, drawing creators, thinkers, and dreamers from across the UK, while remaining steadfast in its mission of empowerment, diversity, and inclusion. This year's mesmerising showcase was a testament to that vision. A venue alive with bold artistic installations and immersive lighting set the scene for collections spanning avant-garde innovation, Afro-futurism, streetwear rebellion, and sustainable couture. Designers from London, Birmingham, Glasgow, and beyond brought their finest works—but beyond the exquisite craftsmanship, it was the stories woven into the fabric that resonated most. One of the evening's defining moments came from Joel Baraza, a young gospel musician and student at St Helens College in Merseyside, who made his fashion show debut with an electrifying performance. Blending Afrobeat rhythms with contemporary gospel, his voice—powerful, evocative, and unshakably sincere—turned a musical set into an emotionally charged journey that left the audience spellbound. Joel's performance transcended entertainment—it was a message, a declaration of hope, perseverance, and artistic resilience. His original song carried themes of triumph, resonating deeply with the diverse crowd . As his final note faded, the thunderous applause was not just for his talent, but for the spirit he embodied. Recognising his impact, the Fashion Art Media Group honoured Joel with an award for Outstanding Artistic Contribution. Reflecting on his unforgettable performance, Dr. Cutler said, Joel represents everything this platform is about—undiscovered brilliance, unshakable determination, and the power of art to uplift and inspire. His journey is only beginning, but already, it is lighting the way for others. Joel's journey, indeed, is gaining momentum. His Aberdeen performance has sparked invitations to cultural events across Coventry, Slough, and other hubs with thriving African and Kenyan communities. His story is now more than his own—it is a call to action for other young artists who may lack conventional opportunities but possess boundless talent. Beyond fashion and music, this year's event championed dialogue. A riveting panel discussion, 'Fashion as a Tool for Social Change' brought industry leaders, educators, and youth advocates together to explore fashion's role in addressing inequality, promoting sustainability, and fostering cultural unity. The message was clear! Fashion is more than fabric:- it is identity, expression, and empowerment. Backstage, the atmosphere buzzed with excitement and possibility. First-time models, once unsure, now radiated confidence and newfound purpose. Stylists, designers, and passionate volunteers worked in unison ensuring every detail reflected collaboration and community spirit . As the final model graced the runway and the lights dimmed, one thing was undeniable—this was not just a fashion show – it was a revolution in creativity, a movement of purpose and inclusion, and a testament to the power of art to inspire real change. Looking ahead, Dr. Cutler and her team are already preparing for the 16th edition. One that promises to be bigger, better, and bolder. 'We want to expand—more cities, more collaborations, more young talents discovering their voices. If even one person walks away believing in their potential, then we've succeeded.' For GenZ Joel Baraza and countless other artists who stepped onto Aberdeen's transformative stage, that belief is already becoming part of their reality and personality. For the world watching, the Aberdeen Fashion Show reminds us of one undeniable truth—when fashion meets purpose, the results are nothing short of extraordinary. 1 . Contributed Joel posing with his certificate - so deserved. Photo: Submitted Photo Sales 2 . Contributed Aberdeen Fashion Show, organiser Dr. Lydia Kemunto Cutler Photo: Submitted Photo Sales 3 . Contributed Joel Baraza and his award for Outstanding Artistic Contribution. Photo: Submitted Photo Sales 4 . Contributed Joel posing with his award - so deserved. Photo: Submitted Photo Sales Related topics: AberdeenCommunity
IOL News
06-05-2025
- Entertainment
- IOL News
Dr Precious Moloi-Motsepe stuns at Met Gala 2025 in David Tlale couture
Precious Moloi-Motsepe attends the 2025 Met Gala Celebrating "Superfine: Tailoring Black Style" at Metropolitan Museum of Art on May 05, 2025 in New York City. Image:via AFP Dr. Precious Moloi-Motsepe made a striking first appearance at the Met Gala 2025 in alignment with the AfroDandy theme. Styled by her longtime friend, renowned designer David Tlale, her ensemble reimagined 70s-inspired bell-bottom pants through a couture lens. The structured suit featured an off-shoulder neckline with sculptural tailoring and a dramatic train, marrying traditional elegance with avant-garde sophistication. The fabric choice—an opulent jacquard in soft cream and gold hues—added depth and luxury, while the bold, sculptural headpiece introduced a touch of Afro-futurism and whimsical flair, making the entire look both regal and fashion-forward. Moloi-Motsepe is the founder and CEO of African Fashion International and they are one of the major funders for the "Superfine: Tailoring Black Style" exhibition at the Met Museum. Speaking to AFI, red carpet correspondent actress Nomzamo Mbatha, Moloi-Motsepe shared her thoughts about being at the Met Gala. "It's an important cultural moment, recognition of black excellence and talent from Africa." Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Precious Moloi-Motsepe attends the 2025 Met Gala Celebrating "Superfine: Tailoring Black Style" at Metropolitan Museum of Art on May 05, 2025 in New York City. Image:/AFP
New York Times
06-05-2025
- Entertainment
- New York Times
Jordan Casteel Honors Her Grandmother at the Met Gala
The first time the painter Jordan Casteel saw the dress Charles Elliot Harbison designed for her to wear to this year's Met Gala, she immediately started to cry. 'Not only was it beautiful to see this garment that is tailored quite literally for me,' she said from her couch after her final fitting for what will be her first time attending the event. 'It is something that feels like they were thinking about me from the beginning to the end in designing it.' 'This is a fever dream,' she added. While Ms. Casteel had seen sketches and mood boards and was in constant communication with Mr. Harbison during the design process, the abstract came to life when she was in the room with the garment and the several tailors who were pinning and pricking the dress to her specific needs. 'I feel feminine, I feel bold,' she said about wearing the gown. 'This is a moment where our freedom — there's the complexities of the world that we exist in, but for this day for this carpet for this moment, we are showing up and this outfit makes me feel like I am stepping into a version of myself that no one would expect but that I know I belong.' She added, 'I feel I am powerful and I am beautiful and you will see me, my Black body is going to be seen.' Ms. Casteel, 36, describes the dress as Afro-futurism, or 'the things that we imagine for ourselves,' she said. 'When I put it on, I think it's the feminine part that feels really good.' The dress is really a two-piece: a skirt and a top. They both have strong volume points around the hip and Ms. Casteel is expecting to reveal more and more of it as the night goes on. And while the dress is a focal point of the night, it is what will not be seen from the red carpet that she feels proudest to wear. Beneath the dress will be a necklace that belonged to Ms. Casteel's grandmother, Margaret Buckner Young, who was an author, educator and the first Black woman to serve on the board of the Metropolitan Museum of Art. 'We are all thinking about the dandies in our life,' Ms. Casteel said, referring to the theme of the gala this year. 'She fashioned herself. I am holding her spirit as close as humanly possible in this moment.' 'This is for her,' she added. 'That is also the freedom.'
Time of India
04-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Fine dining at its best: What's off the plate and what to expect from the MET Gala 2025 menu
The MET Gala 2025 is quickly approaching, and while the fashion industry is giddy with anticipation over high-end couture and red carpet events, the food is subtly drawing attention. Each year, the occasion mandates a carefully chosen cuisine that complements the theme and the opulent atmosphere of the night. What's on the menu this year, then? Guests should anticipate a delicious evening full of flavors, even though the entire menu is still under wraps. In keeping with the theme Superfine: Tailoring Black Style, Chef Kwame Onwuachi, who is renowned for his exceptional culinary abilities, is in charge of this year's meal. Just remembered Kwame Onwuachi is in charge of the Met Gala menu this year and everyone should go read his memoir. MET Gala 2025: What to expect from the menu? While speaking to Chef Kwame Onwuachi said that he wants to align with the theme for sure. He said, 'I wanted to really capture Black culture in all of its elements—from the diaspora to the Caribbean to the American South, even to just the boroughs in New York.' Onwuachi serves oxtail consommé with couture-level elegance, according to the website. On a fork, it's Afro-futurism. He also went on to add, 'You can have a story, you can have all these things—but if the food isn't good? Nobody cares.' Foods banned from MET Gala 2025 In 2024, Anna Wintour told Jenna Bush Hager on The Today Show that she prohibited chefs and caterers from incorporating chives, garlic, and onions into their food. She had said, 'Those are three things I'm not particularly fond of. So yes, that's true.' According to Josh Jackson, executive chef and owner-proprietor of Great Taste Catering in Los Angeles, the decision to ban certain ingredients at the MET Gala likely comes down to maintaining a flawless appearance for celebrity guests. Speaking to Parade, Jackson explained that the goal is to ensure nothing affects the guests' breath or leaves unsightly traces. 'She doesn't want the food to affect the breath of the celebrity guests. Also, there are several people who are actually allergic to the allium family of bulbous plants, which is rare but possible. But that's maybe a stretch,' he said. 'The real reason must be that she doesn't want to see chives in the guests' teeth. It's understandable.' When is the MET Gala 2025? Met Gala 2025 is on 5th May 2025. You can watch the live stream on Vogue's social media channels.
Time Out
29-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Time Out
A reimagined AIDA comes to Artscape
Opera fans… hold onto your theatre glasses. This May, Cape Town Opera unveils a striking new retelling of Verdi's classic, AIDA, at the Artscape Opera House. Directed by Artistic Director Magdalene Minnaar, this reimagining of the iconic opera is done through a lens of Afro-futurism, exploring love, betrayal, and cultural identity in a modern context. The all-South African cast is led by acclaimed soprano Nobulumko Mngxekeza in the title role, alongside rising star Nonhlanhla Yende as Amneris. Choreographed by Gregory Maqoma and featuring dancers from Jazzart, this production brings emotional intensity and powerful movement to the opera stage, while the 52-member Cape Town Opera Chorus and the Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra, conducted by Kamal Khan, provide the musical backbone. Look forward to a visual feast of geometric set design, immersive lighting and bold costumes. Aida will be performed in Italian with surtitles in English and isiXhosa. With a soaring score, visionary direction, and a uniquely local creative team, this is one Cape Town opera event you don't want to miss. Aida runs at the Artscape Opera House where: Friday 23 May at 7pm Sunday 25 May at 3pm Tuesday 27 May at 7pm Thursday 29 May at 7pm Saturday 31 May at 3pm.
