International Exchange
Project Overview
A cultural collaboration connecting UK-based designers with artisan communities in Zimbabwe.
​Through a two-week residency, designers will learn traditional craft techniques and work directly with artisans to develop new textile elements. These will be translated into contemporary fashion collections and presented publicly in London — offering audiences insight into cross-cultural craft practices and artistic exchange.
Residency
Zimbabwe
• 3 UK-based designers selected from UDGN network
• 2-week residency with artisan communities
• Hands-on learning of traditional craft techniques
• Collaborative development of textile elements
Development
united kingdom
• Designers return to UK
• Integration of craft techniques into garments
• Experimentation and refinement
• Creation of 1–2 final looks per designer
Presentation
london
• Showcase during London Fashion Week
• Presentation to public, press & industry
• Communication of cultural & creative process
Visual Direction
Creative Direction
The project focuses on the relationship between traditional craft and contemporary design — where heritage becomes a living creative tool, not a reference point.