Brooks African-Print Design Challenge Fashion Winner

Congratulations to Gina Von Dee!

Our fashion winner in the Brooks African-Print Design Challenge.

In celebration of our current exhibition, African-Print Fashion Now! A Story of Taste, Globalization, and Style, we partnered with Spoonflower to hold a two-part African-Print Design Challenge that incorporates the repeating design style of African print.

The first part of the challenge invited creatives to design a textile that highlights the dynamic traditions of bold and colorful patterns found in African dress. The winning textile design, African Art Cloth, was created by thewellingtonboot and can be purchased via Spoonflower.

During the challenge’s second part, designers were invited to use the winning textile to create an original fashion design, including clothing, accessories, or even jewelry.

Our fashion design winner Gina Von Dee shared her inspiration for her piece:

"I had to touch, feel, and examine the fabric, its floral scale, texture and vibrant color. I let it 'speak' to me. The Neckpiece represents the winding, powerful Rivers of the African continent & the neckpieces which adorn the women of its various cultures. The strapless Sundress pays homage to the strong shoulders of our Maternal heritage, while perfectly piped in pink – waist defining, then blossoming petals at the hip for balance. And shoes to match!"

Gina Von Dee is a custom women’s fashion brand, based in Memphis & New York. Taking inspiration from nature, travel, and art to create unique and interesting one-of-a-kind pieces, to the delight of clients and fashion enthusiasts, alike.

Thank you to our honorable mentions who also submitted fashion designs.

Felicitas Sloves, Memphis, Tennessee, Set of two lined handwoven bags, 2018

Zachary Webb, Memphis, Tennessee, Tie, 2018