The Tribune

By ALESHA CADET

Tribune Features Reporter

acadet@tribunemedia.net

IN an effort to encourage young Bahamians to visit their 3D artist studio and support the team there, members of Mega Mergers recently hosted a fashion event like no other.

Models took to a runway set up at the Graycliff Heritage Village Artists Studios sporting creative rubber couture fashion designs.

Onlookers were amazed to see the transformation of old tyres and other discarded materials that were reconstructed into clothing for the “Wear Your Rubber” showcase.

The pieces were complemented by accents and accessories specially designed by Bahamian artists and fashion designers. Although the show was the organisation’s first official event, Mega Mergers are no strangers to contributing to country’s art and entertainment scene.

Long before starting Mega Mergers, Candis Marshall, the organisation’s founder, formulated ideas as to how best to engage and empower young people, especially in urban areas.

Just year, Ms Marshall said it was brought to her attention that the Ministry of Youth was interested in starting an apprenticeship programme, but qualified facilitators were needed. This became the opportunity that started it all.

The purpose of the Mega Mergers apprenticeship programme is to expand employment opportunities for at-risk youth and low income youths up to age 20. The programme offers apprenticeship training that aims to boost environmental consciousness as well as encourage entrepreneurial skills and the development of social skills which can be used to generate immediate income on a shoestring budget.

“Mega Mergers is a great example of preparation meeting opportunity. To date, I have three full-time apprentices who started with me during the summer that work closely with me to create the Mega Mergers product line. Their names are Kendra Nelson, Erisha Mackey and Joshua Marshall. From September to date they have not only learned how to transform old tyres into furniture, but they have also learned to transform them into wearable art,” said Ms Marshall.

Despite the fact that it was not in the organisation’s immediate plans to occupy a studio space apart from the one where they were presently working, Ms Marshall said they saw the space at the Graycliff Heritage Village as a great opportunity to expand their horizons.

“Once we got into the space we realised that we had to do something to encourage persons locally to come down to the studios and support us and our fellow artisans. We had very little financial resources but a lot of passion and creativity. So after several brain-storming sessions we decided that we would have a fashion show. Initially, we were only going to showcase creative works by Mega Mergers, but as we thought through the event more it made sense to go all out and live up to our namesake, Mega Mergers. So it was decided that we would make a mega merger,” said Ms Marshall.

The team invited artists to showcase their works in their studio during the recent event. These artists included names like Tiffany Barriett Silk Designs, Ras Coconut Works, Jessica Colebrook Tiles Works, Xan Xi, Beagard, paintings by Eneas, Marvin Storr and Holly Porotti Photography. They also reached out to friends at Doongalik Studios’ Craft Cottage, who premiered their Muddaflips sandals.

Tyler Johnston of the Johnston Foundery in Abaco provided hand-forged belt buckles for the event, and fashion designers Keywonah and Kendra Beneby were featured while also assisting in styling the models that walked the runway.

Other Bahamian designed apparel was provided by clothing designer Nadi Dennis and Ranard Henfield, of the 242 Clothing Company. Profiles 98 Magazine came on board as one of the key partners in making the event come to life.

“The Rhythm and Youth Ensemble kicked of the event with a spectacular performance. They were immediately followed by the turntable stylings of DJ Ovadose that kept the crowd energised as they toured the studios and partook in the treats and drinks provided,” Ms Marshall said.

Once the show started, all of the artist studios at Graycliff closed their doors and the sidewalks became the catwalk. Model after model strutted down the walk showcasing not only the works of Mega Mergers, but of all the artists and designers that made the event possible.

Ms Marshall said the event was a statement to those who are not fully aware of the magnitude of the creative genius that exists in the Bahamas.

“Over the years I have heard people try to define the Bahamian creative. You cant! Our scope is so wide and so diverse that it is mind-blowing. It is sad that in our country for the most part we do not respect and encourage the arts. In this event alone we had a 16-year-old DJ who is top billed and is sought after internationally. Our songstress Kendra Beneby has performed internationally on more occasions than I can remember. One of our designers, Keywonah Beneby, was featured in Vogue Italia last year,” said Ms Marshall.

“The Mega Mergers apprenticeship programme is actively cultivating the next crop of extraordinary Bahamian designers, artists and entrepreneurs that will transform the Bahamian cultural and economic landscape.”