LVMH Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton and Parsons The New School for Design today announced the launch of “The Art of Craftsmanship Revisited: New York” to celebrate the tradition of authenticity, creativity and craftsmanship that has long inspired and defined the luxury industry.
“The Art of Craftsmanship Revisited: New York” brings together Parsons students with New York City artisans. Through an extensive collaboration, student teams are creating original fashion ensembles and short documentary films both inspired by and responsive to the work of a local artisan and the world of LVMH.
Initial work on the project began in late 2009, when 23 teams of Parsons students from a range of design fields were each assigned to a local Master Artisan. Over several months, the artisans generously donated their time: inviting the students into their studios, teaching and demonstrating their work. The participating artisans work in areas including: Architectural Arts, Ceramic Arts, Furniture Arts, Glass Arts, Graphic Arts, Clock Making, Lighting Arts, Metal Arts, Musical Arts, Textile Arts, Theater Arts, Wood Arts, and Restoration and Conservation.
The students’ creations and films will be previewed on February 17 at Milk Studios during MAC & MILK Fashion Week. After which, a panel of judges will select the three winning teams. Awards will be given in the late spring. LVMH and Parsons will organize additional events related to this project through spring and summer 2010, and will provide details about these events at a later date.
"Artisans are the driving force behind the creativity, innovation and heritage of our brands at LVMH, and they are an essential part of the fabric of local economies and our society,” said Renaud Dutreil, Chairman of LVMH in North America.
“We are grateful to the many artisans who are giving so much of their time to this program, and we are delighted to join LVMH in celebrating them. LVMH has shown an enormous commitment to nurturing young talent and we greatly appreciate the opportunity they are providing to our students," said Joel Towers, Dean of Parsons.
