Kingston Creative and SAINT International on (July 28) hosted a fashion themed Artwalk for designers and aspiring models.

 “It’s one thing to create my pieces, but seeing them on the models, watching my hard work and effort come to life, was such a surreal moment for me,” shared SAINT Avant-Garde Designer of the Year 2023, and owner of Amedyss by Nina, Karlene Levy. 

She expressed her appreciation for the SAINT International and Kingston Creative fashion show, which showcased the intricate pieces of local designers at the Artwalk on Sunday, July 28.

This collaborative effort highlighted the new creations from Jamaican fashion designers, modelled by the SAINT International models as they walked the catwalk.

“My love for creating crochet pieces was inspired by my mother. She taught me all I know about making crochet pieces which I have over time developed into a business. My business is now my life long passion. Crochet, to me, is like weaving nothing into something and showcasing the personalities of each piece. Transforming intricate designs from mere thread into something that someone can wear proudly and feel confident is the most rewarding part of being a designer. I create versatile modernised crochet pieces from swimwear, dresses, blouses, pants and soon I will be making wedding dresses,” added Levy. 

Similarly, Owner of Endlesz Dezigns and title holder of SAINT International’s 2023 Jamaica Avant-Garde Designer of the Year, Janseen Graham shared his dedication to leaving his legacy as a multifaceted fashion designer and nurturing the next generation of fashion talent.

“This opportunity means the world to me, as it allows me to share my passion for fashion and provides a platform to connect with other aspiring designers. After three decades in the fashion industry, there’s a level of familiarity with events like these, but the most rewarding aspect is not only seeing the models walk the runway in my pieces but also having patrons visit my booth, asking about the designs, and wanting to learn more about my work. The work that the team at Kingston Creative has been doing over the years is truly commendable,” said the Owner of Endlesz Dezigns, Janseen Graham. 

The monthly Artwalk featured over 20 artisans showcasing their fashionable pieces on the runway in collaboration with SAINT International.

Curated by Dewight Peters, the fashion show also included mini runway presentations where local designers displayed their own intricate pieces. The Artwalk also featured a SAINT Faces of Summer Downtown Model Search, with over 50 aspiring models auditioning and showcasing their potential.

“We’re always happy to collaborate with Kingston Creative for another fashion show. The creativity and craftsmanship displayed by the designers were impressive and we are looking forward to continuing this partnership and seeing even more innovative designs and talented individuals emerge from our future collaborations. SAINT International remains committed to discovering and nurturing talent, which will provide opportunities for Jamaica’s future stars to shine on the world stage,” said Chief Executive Officer of SAINT International Dewight Peters.

The event also offered a variety of engaging activities, including Red Stripe Flavours sip-and-paint sessions, SAINT Faces of Summer Downtown Model Search, and slow stitching classes.

Attendees enjoyed captivating performances by Dub Poet Schevel Dawes.

They also had the opportunity to participate in guided tours such as the Discover Downtown Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour which offered stops to the National Gallery of Jamaica, Tivoli Murals Project, Beat Street, Institute of Jamaica, Jamaica Museum and Fleet Street as well as a Mural Art Walking Tour of Water Lane which features Augmented Reality Street Art.

Bringing the Artwalk to a close, patrons were entertained with performances by Jamaican singer-songwriter Kalyra and dancehall artist Blaize Shell Shell.

“We are delighted to partner with SAINT International once again for another incredible fashion show. This collaboration provides a platform for emerging fashion designers to showcase their talent. We’re excited to continue this partnership and look forward to discovering even more innovative designs and talented individuals in the future,” said Director of Kingston Creative Andrea Dempster Chung.