Project for Empty Space to Salute Dior’s Maria Grazia Chiuri

Rosemary Feitelberg
·1 min read
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TWICE THE FUN: As part of a “Dynamic Duo” themed event, the Project for Empty Space will honor Maria Grazia Chiuri, creative director of women’s haute couture, ready-to-wear and accessories for Dior, and Karishma Swali, cofounder and artistic director of the Chanakya School of Craft, at its annual Badass Art Women Awards this spring.

Another powerful combination, Project for Empty Space’s Jasmine Wahi and Rebecca Jampol, will salute the artist and Pratt>Forward’s cofounder Mickalene Thomas and Pratt Institute’s chair of fine arts, artist and Pratt>Forward cofounder Jane South. Pratt>Forward mentors and supports up-and-coming artists through career development, cultural advocacy and other avenues. Honorees will be saluted on April 10 at the Angel Orensanz Foundation in New York.

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After realizing that women cultural workers whose creativity extended beyond being artists — such as curators, gallerists, writers and academics — were often overlooked, when large institutions doled out awards, PES decided to create its own.

Through their alliance, Chiuri and Swali have teamed up to create a long-standing relationship and mentorship between Dior and the Chanakya School of Craft. More than 1,000 women have benefited from their efforts by engaging as a community, developing skills, and preserving crafts in India. The initiative has also led to interdisciplinary projects, including collaboration with such artists as Judy Chicago, Eva Jospin, Marta Roberti and Mickalene Thomas.

This year’s “two-fer” highlights the interconnectedness of PES’ work in helping to shape the future. The honorees are furthering cultural movement, community and sustainability. In the spirit of “Dynamic Duos,” former BAWA honorees Michi Jigarjian and Sarah Arison are acting as cochairs for this year’s celebration.

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