The O.P.E.N.

What: The third edition of the Singapore International Festival of Arts’ pre-festival programme (it stands for Open, Participate, Engage, Negotiate), which covers fashion for the first time. Carla Fernandez’s “Dances And Ceremonies: Spring/Summer 2017” showcases the Mexican designer’s latest collection through an immersive dance and exhibition; while fashion curator Olivier Saillard’s “Models Never Talk” is a performance piece that sees ’80s French supermodels recount their careers to a live audience.
Why: Both events add some serious fashion – and creative – spark to the local arts calendar. The emerging Fernandez is one to watch for making collaborating with indigenous communities cool, not cliche. Created jointly by artisans in rural Mexico, her woven separates are often unisex and boast a modern, almost Antwerpian street appeal. Meanwhile, Saillard is the rock star curator known for his out-of-the-box fashion exhibitions, including getting Tilda Swinton to model historical garments in Paris’ Palais de Tokyo. The stars of “Models Never Talk”? The likes of Violeta Sanchez and Axelle Doue, muse to Yves Saint Laurent and Jean Paul Gaultier respectively.
When: June 22-July 9
Where: Various locations. Visit www.sifa.sg for details. – LR

Carla Fernandez’s (above) clothes – created by Mexican artisans – are a modern spin on ethical fashion.

Former French supermodels share their fashion memories in Olivier Saillard’s (above) “Models Never Talk”.