In order to encourage creativity and innovation among young people, ELENA LUKA opened a Competition for the best-designed sketch for a prom creation design in Strumica in December. The award competition attracted great attention, as evidenced by the numerous sketches brought by students from several schools to the ELENA LUKA fashion studio in Strumica. The competition, which runs until the end of this month, is intended for all high school graduates and semi-high school graduates from Strumica who can show their talent by sending in the most unique and inspiring design that will be made by the top team at ELENA LUKA.
A week before the competition for the fashion brand ELENA LUKA closed, we spoke with Katerina Hadzi-Kotarova - a graduated fashion designer and teacher of vocational subjects in the field of fashion and design at the Regional Center for Vocational Education and Training "Nikola Karev" from Strumica - about how positive such initiatives are for the education and development of young people.
- How interested are young people in participating in the Competition for the best sketch for a prom creation design, organized by ELENA LUKA?
– We are truly delighted by the enormous interest shown by young creatives. Such initiatives are always welcome, as they encourage creativity and innovation among young people, who are the future designers and creators of fashion. The preparations are really going well. The students submitted their sketches with great enthusiasm, and our task as mentors is to guide them and give them constructive advice so that they can express their ideas in the best possible way. There is a special energy and excitement in the ELENA LUKA atelier, because we are all aware that this is something that will inspire young people and give them the opportunity to stand out in the world of fashion.
- Do you think that initiatives such as the competition organized by the fashion brand ELENA LUKA are positive for the education and development of young people?
– Absolutely. Such initiatives are of exceptional importance for the education and development of young people. They not only allow students to show their talents and creativity, but also motivate them to think outside the traditional educational framework. The competition of the fashion brand ELENA LUKA is a great example of how a platform can encourage young people to express themselves creatively, learn new skills and gain valuable experience that will be useful in their future careers. Such projects create opportunities for young people to network with professionals and receive support for their creative development, which is invaluable for their future.
- What specifically is offered to students who choose to study design, are there conditions for practical teaching, and what ambitions and knowledge should they possess?
– Students who choose to study design are offered a wide range of knowledge and practical experiences that are crucial for their professional development. Our program is designed to cover the basic and advanced concepts of design, from the history of fashion and the basics of drawing, to the creation and realization of their own collections. A key aspect is the mandatory practical classes where students, in addition to applying their theoretical knowledge in the school workshop, visit textile industries and ateliers. When it comes to the ambitions and knowledge that high school graduates who want to study design should possess, they should have a passion for design, they are offered a wide range of knowledge and practical experiences that are crucial for their professional development. Our program is designed to cover the basic and advanced concepts of design, from the history of fashion and the basics of drawing, to the creation and realization of their own collections. A key aspect is the mandatory practical classes where students, in addition to applying their theoretical knowledge in the school workshop, visit textile industries and ateliers. When it comes to the ambitions and knowledge that high school graduates who want to study design should possess, they should have a passion for creativity and art, a desire to explore new trends and techniques, as well as an openness to learning and improvement. Basic drawing skills and a sense of aesthetics are a big plus, but the most important thing is their motivation and desire to progress. Our goal is to support and help them develop their talents and prepare them for a successful career in the world of design.
- What is your philosophy on design? What principles do you use in your teaching and curriculum?
– My design philosophy is based on the balance between creativity and functionality. I believe that every design should be not only aesthetically appealing, but also have a practical application that will satisfy the needs of the user. In my work and in the teaching I do, I emphasize principles such as innovation and originality where I encourage students to think outside the box, to respect the tradition and history of design because every new design is better when informed by the context of what came before it. Design should be practical and fulfill its purpose. I teach students to think about the end product and how their design will fit into everyday life and I encourage them to analyze and criticize because it is important to understand why something works or does not work. Nowadays, it is crucial to create sustainable designs. I want students to think about the impact of their creations on the environment and to use sustainable materials and techniques. Through these principles, I try to prepare students not only for the professional world of design, but also to make them conscious and responsible creators who will contribute to a better world.
- What would you recommend to students who want to pursue fashion design?
– I would recommend that students focus on constantly improving their creativity and technical skills, remain open to new ideas and technologies, and not be afraid to experiment. It is important to develop a sense of aesthetics and learn how to turn their ideas into functional solutions. Communication and the ability to understand the user's needs also play a key role. With patience, dedication, and a desire to progress, they can build a successful career in design.
The ELENA LUKA Design Competition aims to encourage young talented designers to showcase their creativity and vision for the future of fashion, as well as provide them with an opportunity for professional development. The most successful creatives will have the opportunity to see their work transformed into a real fashion creation, which is a great success for any young designer. The competition also promotes support for new generations of designers, motivating them to stand out and develop their portfolio.
Participation in the competition is very simple, you need to submit an original sketch prepared by young enthusiasts in the ELENA LUKA studio in Strumica or by mail to ul. "Goce Delchev 104" with the note - ELENA LUKA competition with your name and surname, street and telephone number.
Ivana Vangelova
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Macedonian