“Masterminds,” ViveCast’s newest series featuring the minds behind brands and movements, releases its second episode featuring award-winning Cebuano “Trashion” artist and design educator Francis Sollano.
HIStory of trashion
“I’ve always been passionate about working with the environment,” said the designer who has been recognized for works of “trashion,” fashion that integrates recycled trash in their pieces.
In his interview he shared that he would make accessories out of candy wrappers when he was younger. But when it came to the concept of trashion, he said it all began when he was stuck in traffic caused by flooding and saw pieces of trash floating around.
He said, “When I went back home, I realized that we should do something about it. I though that since I’ve always wanted to do fashion, why not create trashion? So it all started there—creating sculptures and jewelry out of recycled material.”
Passion, inspiration,education
Sollano expressed that he has always loved working with the youth, which has always been his passion.
He said, “If these kids would be better artists or designers than the ones existing right now, then we would probably be able to send them out of the country and say: ‘Hey! Cebu is a melting pot of creativity, artistry and design.’”
He added, “These kids will be at the forefront—leading the world in design and the arts and that is why my heart will always be with the kids.”
Beyond oneself
“My inspiration will always be the idea that this is not about me,” said Sollano who added that his inspiration would be when he looked at his students. “It’s not just about me or about them; it’s about the whole spectrum of the country.”
In the video, Sollano also answers questions about his creative process and gives tips on how to handle work and life as a designer. Everything from materials to aesthetics and form, he urges aspiring designers to trust the process and value relationships above everything else. (PR)