The new that Gozitan designer Luke Azzopardi is soon launching a new collection has got the Maltese Fashion Industry very very curious and also quite excited. Still a young guy but clearly an extremely talented one, Luke first got tongues wagging when he designed the costumes for Naupaca Dance Factory’s Snow White; it was an excellent production all round but the costumes almost stole the show they were so brilliant. He has continued to build a reputation for both quality and brilliance and his Spring/Summer 2013 featured some exciting bold prints and designs.
I decided it was time for readers to meet Luke and get to know him a bit better. In his own words:
When did you first start to get interested in fashion design?
I’m not exactly sure. I was always keen on the visual arts and in secondary school I developed a strong inclination towards design. I guess garments are what I’m most passionate about.
When did you actually start designing?
The first time I showcased my work was in 2010, both at a small installation exhibition I created as part of a contemporary art tour in Gozo as well as for Naupaca Dance Factory’s The Dream. From then on I continued working with Naupaca Dance Factory as production designer, where I met so many wonderful people with fresh talent – people who still inspire me today and whom I hope to continue working and dealing with. By the time we started to work on The Death of Snow White, I was getting enough commissions to keep me busy until earlier this year when we finally launched the brand, LUKEAZZOPARDI – Għawdex.
Your new collection is soon to be unveiled… any sneak peak you can give us?
The collection titled “Pierced” is the product of extensive research in the area of 1920’s-30’s (Art Deco) Egyptian Revival merged with a local contemporary aesthetic.15 models are set to showcase 30 different outfits, and apart from the obvious pieces, the collection includes underwear as well as accessories.
Any photos from any previous work/collections that you can share with us?
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| Spring/Summer 2013 – Persia Collection |
Which is your all-time favourite piece that you have created?
Probably a wedding dress worn by Adriana Scicluna, who’s also the make-up artist I have been using ever since we first met. (Photo of dress below)
From where do you draw on for inspiration and are there are any other designers that inspire you?
I am absolutely thrilled by travelling and am fascinated by the blending of cultures, pop culture and pastiche elements in contemporary design. I love Italian fashion – mainly Valentino. I mostly draw inspiration from my home – Gozo, as well as people who I have met throughout my life and in some way have introduced me to different world views; Viviana Sciara, Georgia Akbar, Maria Theuma and my grandmother, Tereza.
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