July 12 – 23, 2007
PROJECT:IMAGINE
Nexus is pleased to present PROJECT: IMAGINE a collaborative project between the Drexel University Fashion Department and children from the Charles R. Drew School, an elementary school in University City, Philadelphia. PROJECT:IMAGINE showcases illustrations and children’s wear designed by Drexel University fashion students, illustrations by Drew School students and portraits by photographer David Gehosky.
PROJECT: IMAGINE originated from a need for models for a Drexel fashion design course in children’s wear. Captured through the photography of David Gehosky, the Drew school children breathed life into the clothing designs of the Drexel students and the creativity and excellence of the Drexel’s students work was recorded for the fashion student’s portfolio. This initial meeting further developed into an enriching experience for both the Drexel students and the Drew school.
A conversation between the fashion students and the children emerged that proposed ways of actively creating a future filled with dreams and the ways to realize them. The aim of the experience was to create a strong sense of self-identity for the children, acknowledge that their ideas are important, develop an environment in which the children have a voice, and realize that it is possible to become tomorrow’s leaders. The children’s responses are drawings of what they want to do with their future as well as a wall full of flower drawings.
PROJECT: IMAGINE gives recognition to the children’s contribution, through portrait photographs taken by David Gehosky and through their artwork as directed by Erlene Bass Nelson. In addition, the Drexel fashion design students will exhibit their work from the classes of Marilyn Hefferen and Denise Fike.