To Solange Knowles, The Woolmark Prize Finalists Are All Winners
All six of the 2021 International Woolmark Prize finalists have already won. Kinda. Casablanca, Kenneth Ize, Bethany Williams, Thebe Magugu, LECAVALIER, and Matty Bovan can rest easy knowing that their apparel has appeared in a Solange Knowles production, an honor arguably as worthy of bragging rights as the finalist nod itself.
Before the Prize is decided and awarded, Knowles' multi-disciplinary Saint Heron platform produced Passage, a meditative short film directed by Wu Tsang that stars a host of emerging and established musicians. Soundtracked by Standing on The Corner and styled by Ib Kamara, Passage is a six-act study in sound and style, the artful apparel all outfitting the likes of Dionne Warwick, SahBabii, Dominique Jackson, Joi, and KeiyaA as they flow across backdrops that range from outdoor platforms to unoccupied soundstages.
"In continuing Saint Heron’s world-making practice, Passage further explores my interest in theatrical production through the translation of identity, spirit, philosophy, and creation," Knowles said in a statement. "To reflect on and honor the creative process with the 2021 International Woolmark Prize finalists, Passage aligns with Saint Heron’s mission to reverence creation as life, from abstraction to being."
"It's an honor to be part of Passage, a visual celebration of the next generation of designers," Dionne Warwick continued. "I was drawn to the project because of how the International Woolmark Prize, Solange, and Saint Heron would champion the creative expressions of the finalists in this visionary film. I look forward to witnessing the evolution of the designer's impact in fashion and beyond."
Judged by the likes of the aforementioned Kamara, Thom Browne, and Carine Roitfeld, the Woolmark Prize will be awarded on June 10.