ISA, 1st DOWN SYNDROME STYLIST TRIUMPHS IN ARICCIA
Palazzo Chigi of Ariccia (Castelli Romani, Rome), seat of 17th century art patron Cardinal Flavio Chigi, nephew of Pope Alexander VII, was the opulent setting for the fashion show “Wings of Hope”, featuring the unique creations of young Guatemala stylist Isabella Springmuhl Tejada.
Isa was born in 1997 with Downs Syndrome, which hasn't, however, repressed her talent or her ambition. Despite being initially refused admission to study fashion due to her condition, she acquired a BA in Sciences and Letters and forged ahead, creating her own unique fashion brand “Down to Xjabelle,” inspired by the crafts and textiles of her native culture.
Her creations have been shown at a number of international events, including the International Fashion Showcase during the 2016 London Fashion Week, which led to her inclusion in the BBC list of 100 Women of the Year.
Isa hand-picks vintage authentic Guatemalan textiles and embroideries for her vibrant and colourful collections. Her models tend to be young, with neurotypical conditions or various disabilities, as part of her crusade to encourage acceptance and integration of “those who are different” into normal society and activities.
Info: Fondazione Giovanni Campaniello ETS: Tel. +39.0349.7812102
Museo Diocesano di Albano (RM): Tel. +39.06.93269490
