Travel funds for a Fashion Competition Finalist

Hi, my name is Ginger Van Valkenburg. I'm a costume designer, set designer and artist who is currently a student at IFA Paris. My university entered me into a fashion competition at one of the world's largest lingerie trade fairs called SIUF. I'm happy to say I was chosen as a finalist and am in the process of producing my designs! The 4 looks I create will be shown on a runway in Shenzhen, China and then a winner will be chosen from a panel of judges.

Unfortunately, my university is unable to provide funding for the flight/accommodation and I don't have the funds myself so I want to ask for your help to get me there. Not only did I get chosen for a finalist, but two of my talented classmates were also chosen. There will be a fitting, rehearsal and then the show so it will be a very important learning experience for me. I'd also like to help with the fittings for my classmate's designs and be there to make any alterations needed. The original plan was to have this gofundme for all of us but they are unable to get a visa. Beyond the experience of being there for my first runway, there will be networking opportunities I'd love to take advantage of. I truly appreciate anyone who can help me make this happen. I've worked very hard to be here and don't plan on slowing down anytime soon!

A little more about me, I'm from a small town near Seattle, WA and started my career at 19 after graduating from a 1 year intensive film school called VFS. I worked as a production designer and costume designer for over a year before I decided to continue my education. I thought this was necessary to grow my skills and become the designer I aspire to be. I'm incredibly grateful to be where I am in my path and for all the people who have supported me in the past.

My project for this competition is based on an episode of an anthology TV show called Love, Death and Robots. The episode, Jibaro, is a masterpiece of a short film and highlights many relevant themes I want to bring to light.

My designs follow the ark of the story in 4 stages.

Look one represents the siren in a calm state, surrounded by moss, water and the deep woods.

Look two represents the beginning of violence with blood seeping into the environment.

Look three represents the waterfall scene. I wanted to use the force of water weathering rocks overtime as a metaphor for their relationship.

Look four represents the siren becoming victorious yet stripped of her integrity.

I described these in simple terms because I like to leave the in depth interpretation up to you.

Thank you so much for taking the time to read this and thank you in advance if you decide to donate!