Fashion as Art: Antwerp's Royal Academy Continues to Inspire Global Talent
Johan Pas, Dean of the Royal Academy of Fine Arts Antwerp, affirms that fashion is art. In a time when fashion brands struggle and creative directors face immense pressure for immediate returns, it’s refreshing to see a different approach at the Antwerp Academy.
Unlike the commercial-driven capitals of Milan and Paris, Antwerp has embraced fashion with an artistic and academic perspective. Renowned designers like Dries Van Noten, Raf Simons, and Martin Margiela built successful businesses while remaining true to their artistic visions. Antwerp's contribution to fashion continues to be rooted in creativity, from figures like Walter Van Bierendock and Dirk Van Saene to Kris Van Assche and Meryll Rogge—designers who treat fashion as an art form.
This commitment to creativity has drawn students from around the world, with a notable presence from China. One such student is Shuting Qiu, an alumna from the class of 2019, whose brand has gained international recognition for its luxurious fabrics and bold patterns. Qiu, who launched the Shuting Qiu Award, offers a €3,000 prize to students demonstrating innovation and artistry.
Qiu, who has a deep appreciation for the school, shared her motivation for the award: "I know how hard it is to keep going every year, so I want to support students with financial help and encouragement." The inaugural award was given to Moe Kuwano from Japan for her striking and voluminous designs.
Meanwhile, Taiwanese student Byron Wang received The Sofam Award and The Fabric Sales Award for his poetic and artistic collection exploring themes of alienation. Wang's prizes will help fund his master’s collection next year. Meanwhile, Beijing's Mao Peiwen was awarded the MoMu award for her artistic illustrations, which will be displayed at the Antwerp Fashion Museum.
The Academy's annual events, including exhibitions, installations, and runway shows, attract over 5,000 fashion professionals and enthusiasts, celebrating both local and international talent. This year, China’s growing influence in Antwerp’s fashion scene was evident, with alumni like Yentsé Jin, who debuted his genderless label Nonstop Worldwide, exhibiting at the OffShow exhibition.
The prestigious art school continues to shape the future of fashion, balancing tradition with innovation. The curriculum remains grounded in classic techniques like drawing and working with toiles, yet the institution is expanding its global reach, inviting international educators and designers to participate in its judging panels and collaborations.
For international students, including those from China, entry into the Academy is highly competitive, with only 40 places offered out of 600 applications. Yet those who succeed are immersed in an intense academic environment that pushes boundaries and fosters creativity.
