Berlin, January 19, 2023–On the heels of his fashion show in Kraftwerk last year, which was one of the first artistic messages from Ukraine since the invasion, Jean Gritsfeldt’s presentation of "BORN IN KYIV. SCULPTOR OF LOVE" follows on January 19, 2023, as a continuation of his protest statement. The collection is a tribute to the energy of the Ukrainian people, their unbreakable spirit and resilience, fed by a force that permeates everything: Love.
The initial version of "BORN IN KYIV. SCULPTOR OF LOVE" was supposed to be presented as part of Berlin Fashion Week in February 2022. Due to Gritsfeldt’s living circumstances having changed drastically, when the Russian invasion of Ukraine began, he was forced to realize a statement collection at that time.
Since then, "BORN IN KYIV. SCULPTOR OF LOVE" has been reworked. Gritsfeldt's collection articulates a playful form of protest art: "Because inhumane systems will only be overthrown by the transformative power of love energy, people will reach for their inner light and purity that flows through the debris of the obsolete. My work is supposed to awaken the most loving version of yourself. Your inner superstar," notes Gritsfeldt.
Gritsfeldt’s fashion overcomes the obstacles of fashion. It is bold, never-too-formal and full of individualism. The looks of the collection seem almost anarchical. He uses corduroy, linen, wool, synthetic fur, silk, and chiffon. He combines floral patterns with military prints, thick fringes with sequins, ruffles and embroidery. He distorts classic silhouettes. He uses pop cultural references and deconstructs them. Gritsfeldt’s imagination knows no limits.
The presentation of the collection will be performed as an intersection of fashion and performance art, directed by Gritsfeldt himself. The deconstruction of nudity and the nature of transformation are at the center of the performance, in which Gritsfeldt will also be starring as a performer.
The show will be presented as part of Berlin Fashion Week with the support of the Berlin Senate Department for Economics, Energy and Public Enterprises in collaboration with the Fashion Council Germany.
Due to overwhelming demand, the venue will be revealed a few days before the show.
For tickets to the show and for backstage interviews contact:
