GRAND RAPIDS, MI — An ArtPrize entry is combining environmental education with a 20-model runway show.
The project, called “Scraps,” showcases the work from designers Kait Fitzpatrick and Camille Steverson, who own a vintage and upcycled store Second Vibess. The two local entrepreneurs’ ArtPrize installation centers around sustainability, nature, and organic materials,
Steverson described the project as “a manifesto of what we do.”
Models wearing 20 upcycled looks, comprising a total of 40 individual pieces, will strut through a large venue at the Scraps Fashion Show on Saturday, Sept. 27, at the ArtPrize gallery BioPhilia. The event will feature reclaimed textiles and sustainable materials,
BioPhilia is a large installation gallery housed at downtown Grand Rapids restaurant Silva, 975 Ottawa Ave. NW.
ArtPrize, an intrnaltional art competition, website states the venue “delves into the profound connections between nature and art” and showcases “the intricate relationship between humans and the natural world.”
The show will begin at 8 p.m., following a 7 p.m. cocktail hour. Models will walk a loop around the entire gallery space, ensuring all attendees can view the garments regardless of their position.
After the show, a meet-and-greet at 9 p.m. will allow visitors to examine the pieces up close and ask models about construction details and materials.
The event is free and open to the public.
This marks the duo’s third fashion show overall. Their previous shows faced weather challenges, with one occurring during a snowstorm and another held outside on a bridge in winter.
The designers have a philosophy of not shaming people for struggling with sustainability in a society not built to support it. For Fitzgerald and Steverson, fashion shows are a mode of education and acceptance.
“We’re trying to let people know that small things do make a difference,” said Fitzpatrick. ”You don’t have to be perfect.”
ArtPrize launched in 2009 that kicked off Thursday in Grand Rapids.
The 16-day competition kicked off with a lively street party and fireworks show on Friday, Sept. 19 downtown. ArtPrize, which runs through Oct. 4, will feature special events, fireworks, artist workshops, concerts, live performances, interactive exhibits and more.
Click here for a full guide to ArtPrize 2025.
Below are some of our favorite photos from the first weekend of ArtPrize 2025, click here to see the full gallery.