GREEN IS THE NEW BLACK

Fashion designer Amos Ananda and textile artist Natalia Tan champion the message of sustainability through perseverance and thought-provoking art.

- Amos Chin

It isn’t easy but it is about time we hold up a mirror to the fast fashion industry. It is responsible for nearly 10 per cent of global carbon emissions—a figure that is projected to increase to 50 per cent by 2030. It is also estimated that US$500 billion is lost annually because of under-wearing and failure to recycle clothes, no thanks to throwaway culture which has gotten progressively worse over the years.

As sustainability advocates, local fashion designer Amos Ananda and textile artist Natalia Tan stepped up to the plate to underscore the severity through their works, one thread at a time. In his latest collaboration with Harley Davidson, Ananda redefined convention by transforming what is deemed trash into striking visual displays for the upcycling capsule collection and showcase. The showroom echoed the same sustainable ethos, tapping on solar power.

Tan employs the Japanese saori weaving technique, working with upcycled materials, often sourced from the community and urban environment, and turning them into stunning art pieces. To date, she has shared the joys of weaving and art with thousands in Singapore and repurposed over 200kg of textile wastes and plastics.

Here, Robb Report Singapore delves into the perspectives of these trailblazers, discussing their vision of a green world and how they believe art can be created without compromising our planet.

AMOS ANANDA

What inspired you to focus on sustainability in your fashion and art projects?

This year, my brand celebrates its 10th anniversary and I’m more determined than ever to push fashion’s boundaries. Inspired by unconventional design and aesthetics, I aim to create and collaborate in ways that honour sustainable practices, which is crucial in today’s world.

How has your experience shaped your approach to sustainable design?