Gail Sorronda on the Art Boat | Brisbane Festival
Brisbane's Art Boat was transformed into an immersive fashion parade as the vessel's art installation was flooded by models wearing the designs of Gail Sorronda. The night celebrated Meanjin's talent as the local fashion designer was accompanied by the music of 4ZZZ’s Dominique Furphy and a stunning arrangement of roses by Eudaemonia Floristry. Bringing together all these creatives was vital in creating such an enthralling atmosphere.
A stunning sculptural work dominated the boat's deck and was the centrepiece of the night's activities. Lindy Lee’s installation The Spheres created a space in which exploration was encouraged; illuminated reflective spheres were shrouded behind perforated walls, all of which were open to the audience to explore. Every angle of the installation provides a unique view as light reflects through the openings of the installation, making each angle distinct.
My expectation for any fashion show is a runway-style performance with a dedicated area for the audience. These preconceptions came from what I had seen on television, as I had never attended a runway show in person. Therefore as the models emerged, I assumed the crowd would be relegated to the boat's sides. But this assumption was far from correct as we were soon within centimetres of the models as they joined the night's activities.
Images: Atmosphere Photography
Underneath a starless night, as the onboard lights dimmed, the only lights were the illuminated crowns the models wore as they emerged into the crowd. The models adorned fairy lights woven in their hair, signalling to the audience that the show had started. However, as the performers moved through the crowd, it became clear that this was no ordinary fashion show. Instead, what had just moments ago been a cruise on the Brisbane river transformed into an almost cult-like ceremony as the models encircled one of the spheres of light. Gail Sorronda then dressed one of the models in front of the crowd as the other performers brought her each piece of clothing in a ritualistic manner. As the show progressed, the models moved with purpose and precision, as each had the opportunity to display their outfits. Presenting the outfits as part of a performance decommodified them in my mind. The lack of a runway or traditional setting ensured that my appreciation for the clothing was based not on their commercial value but rather on their inherit beauty.
Describing the stylings of Gail Sorronda is a difficult task. My first impression would be to describe the inspirations as gothic; however, this implies the harshness of gothic architecture, and in contrast, Gail Sorrondas's pieces were incredibly delicate. More akin to a moth's wing or a spider's Web. Each outfit was monochromatic but had incredible depth with sheer and intricately decorated materials. The outfits exuded confidence, and I would happily wear any of them.
The Brisbane River is magnificent, and the Art Boat was a celebration of this. Even though I have often taken the same route on a ferry, I found myself entranced by the river and its reflections. This experience recontextualised the river and reminded me of its natural beauty. The first half of the trip was peaceful as we cruised along the river and enjoyed the art and sounds around us. The fashion show only began towards the end of the voyage. My one complaint about the evening would be that it was not made clear when the show would begin, and this uncertainty hampered my ability to take in my surroundings.
Upon reflection, I cannot imagine this show being nearly as impactful if it had taken place on a standard runway. The onboard installation could have easily distracted from the outfits or vice versa. However, The creativity and ingenuity of those involved allowed their art to complement one another seamlessly. Events such as these that celebrate local talent are critical, and it is always wonderful to see and meet the varied creatives of Meanjin.
