Venetian Bags Carmina Campus by Ilaria Venturini Fendi
“Creating without destroying”: this is the philosophy of Carmina Campus, a creative recycling project applied to fashion and design. Ilaria Venturini Fendi is a true believer: under her talented eye, used or leftover materials give way to unique accessories like the “Venetian Bags” presented in an exclusive preview for YOOXYGEN. These small clutch bags, in jewel tones, have been constructed from the thin strips of aluminum once used for Venetian blinds.
EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH ILARIA VENTURINI FENDI
DISCOVER THE VENETIAN BAGS CARMINA CAMPUS
1. How would you describe your relationship with Nature?
It’s a constant relationship, seeing as I work during the day in an agricultural company that produces organic food. This is where I like to be. Surrounded by nature I feel full, and it gives me a sense of belonging that I don’t get anywhere else.
2. What materials and techniques do you use for the Carmina Campus creations?
Things have a very short life cycle today, they get old much before they get worn out. We re-use material that may even be new, but have been discarded for some reason – no longer suited for their original intent or even just forgotten. The list grows longer by the day, as we are always doing research and experimentation. We give these material new life, with new functions, putting them together with the traditional craftsmanship employed for precious materials. Even for the most experienced artisan, certain materials are a challenge and many times we need to make several attempts to transform an idea into a high-quality product.
3. Is it possible to talk about eco-fashion without sacrificing style?
I’d say that style can become even more evident, as long as it goes from being an ephemeral trend to something that lasts over time, and old customs get revolutionized.
4. What are your suggestions for “ethical” shopping?
Basically, we need to take a step back and change our way of thinking. Compulsive shopping makes no sense. It’s better to give ourselves time to gather detailed information about every object or clothing item we buy, learn about how it was made and by whom. A label like we now find on food would be a good start. And we need to go back and find our respect for things, avoiding waste.
5. What are the ways that Carmina Campus helps to protect the environment?
The entire Carmina Campus project aims to highlight creativity that doesn’t harm the environment. The re-use of primary materials can be a starting point for style and a way to prolong the lifespan of objects, postponing the moment that they get discarded. There are specific actions, like those used for packaging (the recycling of packaging, we use biodegradable ribbon, etc), or reforestation initiatives. One of our projects focuses on an area in Cameroon where we are trying to create a garden of officinal plants. If this comes to pass, it will provide work opportunity for a group of women who are already involved in the craftsmanship of our bags.
