The anti_dog collection has been designed by Alicia Framis to make women — especially coloured ones — feel protected in dangerous neighbourhoods inhabited by skinheads, their dogs and other kinds of aggressors. The fist collection of this social art piece was composed of 23 dresses produced in a bullet-resistant and stab-proof fabric called Twaron in order to enable women to fend off aggression. The dresses are based on famous designs by Chanel, Dior, Courrèges, Gaultier, Hussein Chalayan, Karen Park-Goude. The classic styling and the golden fabric give the garments a kind of luxurious appeal.

This project started with Framis’ experience of living in Berlin. She was told about a certain part of town called Marzahn where she would not be able to walk alone as a woman with dark skin because racist skinheads with their aggressive dogs rule over the streets there. She felt an urge to go, but with a protection against those dogs.

During a residency in the UK Framis designed five more anti_dog dresses. Embroidered onto the garments were messages and quotes such as “this is not your country” and “i don’t want a foreigner for this job”. They were worn by participants in a fashion parade through Victoria Square in central Birmingham (Video of the performance.)

When I think about anti-violence, it is the place where creativity starts. The brand of products called anti_dog is a mix of creativity and protection. In these days Safety and Protection are high on the agenda of politicians and citizens, but the means they use to achieve that are scary.

More info about anti_dog. Images.

I read that Alicia Framis has shown a collection called Mamamen at Super! in Hasselt. I can’t find any information online. Can anybody send me more details or pictures of it? Thanks!