Diva - distinguished, goddess, celebration. Natural forms- flowers, animals, landscapes. Combining these two elements with art and sculpture formed the basis of the 2024 TGS Fashion Show, the highlight of the school year.

 Amongst other students showcasing their designs, Year 10 art students walked the catwalk, balancing, wearing and carrying their artwork on their bodies. I talked to Sage Udernani, one of these artists, who found inspiration for her piece in the ocean. “ I decided on coral, as I've always loved the Great Barrier Reef, and want to preserve its natural beauty within my artwork”. Although she found the making process tough, and sacrificed hours of her time to finesse her sculpture, when it was finished, it truly transported the audience to the other side of the world.

As well as the ocean, another great inspiration for her was Barbara Hepworth, an artist who specialised in large, abstract sculptures. Her work exemplified the Modernism Movement, and  I believe that Udernani successfully mirrored this in her work. “ I loved the variety of curves she used in her pieces, and realised my own sculpture could incorporate abstract elements into it too’. Her ombre orange and red coral unites the traditionally harsh dichotomy between natural and modern forms, as well as the bright colours tying in with the Diva stereotype perfectly.

Udernani found showcasing her hard work exhilarating and exciting. “ I had never seen myself as someone who could be confident enough to walk in front of hundreds of people, but this experience allowed me my moment to shine, which I believe everyone deserves to have.” Her favourite part of the evening was seeing the many ways people had interpreted the very broad brief ‘Natural Forms’. “ Everyone had such unique ideas, and I saw so many interesting sculptures ranging from rocks to birds, birds to octopus, octopus to leaves. It was wonderful to see my peers express themselves like that and I thought everyone looked amazing”. 

Sage Udernani and many other students completely embraced this experience, and I am sure I am not the only one who thinks that this was an event to remember.