The Traveler

Issue date: 3/25/09 Section: Lifestyles

Media Credit: Joelle Storet

Who would ever think that the next top fashion designer could be a neighbor, a student or even a teacher?

When it comes to fashion, Northwest Arkansas might seem like an unlikely place, but the creativity of aspiring new artists is thriving. The University Programs Anne Kittrell Art Gallery is looking for new, innovative designers for a fashion exhibit that will be hosted on campus. The UA apparel studies program and the art gallery are working together to spread the art of fashion and to help local designers show their work.

Sarah Busch, coordinator of the Anne Kittrell gallery, wanted to bring "all elements of the arts to the gallery," she said.

"Designer Call" is open to all designers in the area. No experience is required, and the event is not limited to UA students. There are four categories that designers must choose from to best fit their description and guidelines. The categories include casual, career, cocktail and evening wear, and theater apparel and accessories.

Casual wear entails simple garments that are more relaxed and playful, such as sportswear.

Suits and coats for business and office attire are expected for the career category. For cocktail and evening wear, one can anticipate lavish dresses and possibly bridal wear.

The last category will consist of theatrical costumes and innovative materials that can be used to create something wearable as well as unique.

Even the garments not chosen for the exhibition will still have an opportunity to be displayed.

There will be a runway show during the next fall semester in the Union Connections Lounge that will showcase the clothing. It will be the first apparel exhibition that the gallery has ever featured, and it will be the second year for the fashion runway show.

"My goal is to have an exhibit with apparel art in the gallery during the time of the fashion show," Busch said.

The garments and accessories chosen for the final exhibit will also be on display until Sept. 14.

For more information about "Designer Call," contact Sarah Busch at upart@uark.edu.

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