The Art Institute, known for being the largest school-museum campus in the United States, is celebrating its 76th annual fashion show with not one but three shows this year. For the first time there will be a “Nightwalk” segment. This includes a fashion show, open bar and hors d’oeuvres.
It has taken 15 years for the show to return to the actual Art Institute building. Also, notably, this is the first time that it will be held at Griffin Court, which provides a unique runway space. One the students will receive a $25,000 fellowship gift to use on graduate school or to establish a studio. Designer Gary Graham will receive a SAIC Legend of Fashion award this year, and the life of Ebony magazine founder/Ebony Fashion Fair force Eunice W. Johnson will be celebrated.
“We have re-invented the event in its entirety. It is about raising awareness about the school and the fashion department for the next generation. There will be looking at the past, present and the future with all three segments to the evening,” said co-chair Greg Cameron, who happens to be openly gay. “This is a chance to support our students and have a good time in the process because every penny raised goes to student scholarships.”
On Friday, May 7, there are three shows. The 2 p.m. show is already sold out. The 6 p.m. show is called “The Walk.” The 9 p.m. show is the previously mentioned “Nightwalk.” To buy tickets for the SAIC Fashion Show 2010, visit saic.edu/fashionshow or call 312-899-7484.