BFC and Rankin Entertainment launch short film series to celebrate 30 years of NEWGEN
The British Fashion Council (BFC) is this week launching a short film series entitled ‘Sartorial Stories’, concepted and shot by Rankin Entertainment to celebrate the 30th anniversary of NEWGEN – highlighting the scheme’s legacy of nurturing emerging design talent, and its alumni.
Through brief interviews, the five-part film series follows the journeys of current and former NEWGEN designers; Bianca Saunders, Cozette McCreery, Priya Ahluwalia, Robyn Lynch and Sinead O’Dwyer whose authentic stories are revealed, “rooted in culture, community and creativity”.
Released every week until 8 September 2023, and featuring one designer per episode – kicking off with Bianca Saunders (pictured) this Friday 11 August – the series explores the impact the NEWGEN initiative has had on them and the growth of their business.
NEWGEN is the BFC’s most established designer showcasing and development initiative, with recipients identified by their creativity, aesthetic and innovative approach to design. It aims to build creative responsible businesses for the future by offering designers an opportunity to showcase their collections at London Fashion Week, as well as financial support and mentoring to help them future proof their businesses.
The year-long ‘NEWGEN 30’ celebrations will culminate with the opening of a landmark exhibition, called ‘REBEL: 30 Years of London Fashion’, which is sponsored by Alexander McQueen and guest-curated by Sarah Mower, BFC Ambassador for Emerging Talent.
The exhibition will open on 16 September 2023 and will run until 11 February 2024 at the Design Museum in London. The BFC says “it will be one of the most compelling contemporary fashion exhibitions ever staged in the UK”, acknowledging the work of over 300 designers, and featuring over 100 objects.
Main image: Bianca Saunders
