Tiernan Silcock | On 05, Aug 2013

Designer Julie Tengdahl has collaborated with Brisbane artist Jacqui Conias to create special limited edition prints for her Spring/Summer collection, which will be unveiled at the Mercedes Benz Fashion Festival next month.

This relationship is ten years in the making, with the duo involved in numerous creative pursuits during the past decade, culminating in a bespoke fabric collection comprises of digital copies of Jacqui’s artwork.

The exciting venture – aimed at inspiring women to embrace their inner power, confidence and femininity – was born from Ms Conias’ personal struggles which have been a catalyst for her art.

Ms Conias created the contemplative portrait works after her daughter was born premature at 27 weeks.

“The paintings were about celebrating the positive aspects of life, staying true to your core, and embracing the difficulties in life as they undoubtedly lead to the good,” Ms Conias said.

The resulting artwork raised funds to purchase a milk bank freezer for the RBWH Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, who played a crucial role in her daughter’s survival.

Ms Tengdahl said fashion and art have been intrinsically linked throughout history, working with one another to inspire new ideas and make different forms of creativity accessible to the public.

“The theme of my S/S this year hinges on the concept of ‘high society’ – not in terms of social standing or socioeconomics, but elevating who we are on the inside by surrounding ourselves with authentic, mindful people who stimulate and challenge you. This collaboration with Jacqui has personally done that for me, and the story behind the art work reflects the collection’s inspiration as well,” Ms Tengdahl said.

“We want to encourage women to elevate themselves through what they say and do, how they love and live, and how they present themselves to the world.”

The exclusive fabrics include Julie’s inspirational messages that have been transformed by Jacqui into subtle kaleidoscopic geometric prints, and will feature alongside Tengdahl’s signature lace, silks and luxurious embellished textiles to create the collection.

“This is a true collaboration; the designs have informed the artwork just as much as the art has informed the designs,” Ms Conias said.

The Tengdahl Spring/Summer collection featuring the Tengdahl/Conias prints will be revealed for the first time at the Mercedes Benz Fashion Festival.

The Details:

What: Brisbane Arcade Group Show

When: 6:30pm Wednesday 28th August

Where:Brisbane City Hall

Cost: $52

Tickets: http://mbff.com.au/bookings.html