A fashion and sculpture encounter in Cuong Dam's show

Designer Cuong Dam showcases creativity through a fashion and sculpture performance at the "Aether" art exhibition.

After two years since the Paramount exhibition, Cuong Dam returns with "Aether", centered on the theme of "Open Limits". The event features 20 fashion designs and four sculptures. Held from 8/10 to 10/10 at the Ho Chi Minh City Fine Arts Museum, it drew celebrities such as Ho Ngoc Ha, Hong Nhung, My Linh, Tung Duong, and tlinh.

At the opening, models, wearing masks and gloves, walked slowly through areas of light and shadow under the museum's arches.

An avant-garde design with futuristic elements, applying pleating techniques and sculptural forms. Photo: Team CDam

An avant-garde design with futuristic elements, applying pleating techniques and sculptural forms. Photo: Team CDam

Cuong Dam utilized curves, a shared foundation in both sculpture and fashion, to develop his ideas. These lines were incorporated into garments through cut-outs, open hems, or small details. The structural curves were also interpreted through draping and peak lapel collars.

Within a color palette ranging from dark to neutral tones, the designs were connected by minimalist lines. This approach aimed to create an eclectic style for each outfit. Every piece blended classic elements with modern silhouettes, or the strength of menswear with feminine curves, breaking monotony and creating a harmonious overall look.

While adhering to minimalist rules and a specific color range, the collection offered fresh perspectives through its liberal style. Lighting enhanced the designs, highlighting fabric texture and form. As the performance concluded, the models stood still, resembling statues.

The designs were showcased in the museum's minimalist space. Video: Team CDam

The designs were showcased in the museum's minimalist space. Video: Team CDam

For the exhibition, the designer created six non-linear spaces, breaking conventional sequential rules. These spaces featured several hemispherical, single, and double rhomboid metallic works arranged on synchronized pedestals.

Cuong Dam dedicated an area to display archival materials, allowing visitors to trace the journey of an idea from concept to fashion, sculpture, music, and other art forms. To enhance a focused and complete experience, the designer chose ambient music, emphasizing atmosphere, spatial sensation, and minimalist decor and arrangement.

A corner of the "Aether" exhibition space. Photo: Team CDam

A corner of the "Aether" exhibition space. Photo: Team CDam

The designer spent 18 months simultaneously developing the fashion and sculpture. The "open limits" concept originated from Cuong Dam's personal experiences of overcoming creative boundaries.

Born in Hanoi in 1990, Cuong Dam graduated from the University of Architecture and the London College of Fashion and Design. He is known for his "Inflowing" and "Rendezvous" shows. His designs combine structure with the body, and form with soft movement. Many local and international stars, including Ngu Thu Han, Ho Hanh Nhi, Ha Ho, Lan Khue, Tuyet Lan, and Van Mai Huong, admire his style.