FLYING SOLO

Glass rebels Sini Majuri and Marja Hepo-aho shake off the dust from traditional glass art by taking the UNESCO-listed glass to the catwalks of New York Fashion Week. The eight-part Infinity Vessel collection showcases wearable sculptures reflecting female archetypes. The triptych work spans a wide range, including a treasure hunt extending to the streets of New York, a wearable glass catwalk show featuring dancer Mira Ollila walking in 30-centimeter glass shoes, and a future design discussion held at the Consulate General of Finland in New York addressing current topics. The pieces blend old handicraft traditions with modern technology and innovations, such as Spinnova fiber and UPM’s 3D-printable wood.

Tytti Porvari is a footwear professional who crafts the shoes designed by Majuri and Hepo-aho in a studio setting. Aino Simola oversees the technical execution of the costume sculptures. Dance artist Mira Ollila brings bodily expression to the catwalk show. Tufting artist Joonas Salo creates the tufted parts of the works, and 3D specialist Alexandra Holmes models the 3D prints. Representing Finnish identity are model Caritapani, Material Helsinki, Tikkitupa, Kalaparkki, Coolhead Brewery, and Pandan Lakritsi.

Infinity Vessel boldly steps onto the catwalk at New York Fashion Week on February 2024. The Flying Solo fashion show, which is held annually on the roof top surrounded by skyscrapers, gathers a global coverage of current fashion. Infinity vessel is exhibiting an eight-piece collection of wearable glass sculptures, such as crowns that explore femininity and the state of society. Glass crowns can be made-to-order from the master craftsmen of the Infinity Vessel project.

The Flying Solo show is one of the most cutting-edge fashion events during New York Fashion Week presenting a wide array of womenswear, menswear and accessories. Every season, Flying Solo discoveres new talented independent designers from across the globe. The show has been featured in Fashionista, The New York Times, The Huffington Post, Vogue, Marie Claire, Nylon, and Harper’s Bazaar.