AW25 CPHFW Talk Series – Past, Present and Future: The Preservation & Modernization of Craft

Finding the intersection of heritage and innovation in this discussion on the art and importance of craft in today's age.

Craft lies at the heart of fashion’s identity, embodying both cultural heritage and modern artistry. Join this dialogue on the evolution of craft and its relevance in contemporary design and the evolving fashion industry. Panelists will discuss preserving traditional techniques, while integrating new technologies and sustainable practices. Discover how craft remains vital in telling stories, fostering local communities and social economies, and adapting to a changing industry. This talk aims to find a deeper appreciation of fashion as both an art and tool for innovative change.

Moderator:

Veronica D'Souza, Sustainability Leadership & Social Entrepreneur

Veronica D’Souza is an award-winning entrepreneur and visionary leader redefining business through equity, sustainability, and transformative design. As the founder of CARCEL, she pioneered a groundbreaking fashion model by employing women in prison to craft garments from 100% natural materials, blending social justice with exceptional design. With 15 years of global experience across industries and regions, she champions authenticity, inclusion, and systemic change. Veronica’s work inspires a bold and regenerative future for fashion and business.

Panelists:

Arnar Már Jónsson & Luke Stevens, Founders, Ranra

Ranra explores the art of garment making to craft menswear that blends cultural history, ecological consideration, and technical innovation. Learning from and responding to nature, Ranra utilizes natural fibers and dying, and heritage textile techniques to refine the modern wardrobe. Ranra was founded by Arnar Már Jónsson and Luke Stevens, both graduates of the Royal College of Art’s prestigious Menswear program. Through encyclopedic knowledge of the histories of textile manufacture, sportswear and military workwear, alongside unparalleled experience consulting for and collaborating with brands, they have developed a timeless, pragmatic, and original approach to menswear unlike anyone else.

Cengiz Güdücü, Multidisciplinary Artist & Designer

Designer and Multi-artist Cengiz Güdücü established his namesake brand from a basement in Copenhagen in 2022, after graduating from The Royal Danish Academy of Fine Art, School of Design in 2021. Born and raised in the Sydhavn neighborhood of Copenhagen, Designer and Multi-Artist Cengiz Güdücü draws inspiration from his adolescent surroundings and his Kurdish heritage.

Else Skjold, Associate Professor, PhD in Design & Sustainability, Royal Danish Academy

Else Skjold is the head of Klothing – Centre for Apparel, Textiles and Ecology Research and founder of the MA program Fashion, Clothing & Textiles – New Landscapes for Change, at the Royal Danish Academy in Copenhagen. She is also workstream leader for textiles in the Danish national mission-based partnership for circular economy of plastics and textiles, TRACE (trace.dk).

Freya Dalsjø, Designer

Freya studied at the Royal Academy of Fine Arts in Antwerp before establishing her namesake label in 2012. Freya has received generous recognition fx. the 3-year grant given by the Danish Arts Foundation and "påskønnelseslegatet" by the Danish National Bank.

Serena Coelho, Fashion Designer, Artisan & Artist

Serena Coelho is a Brazilian fashion designer, artisan, and artist based in Denmark, whose work operates at the intersection of sustainability, craftsmanship, and technology. She began her journey in fashion through craftsmanship, immersing herself in tailoring and industrial construction practices that have transformed her design approach. By blending traditional artisanal techniques with advanced industrial and technological innovation - such as 3D printing, mechanic engineering, AR, and AI-assisted design- Serena redefines the possibilities of craftsmanship, preserving its cultural significance while adapting it to contemporary and innovative contexts. In recent years, the designer has shifted her focus beyond traditional product development to explore new ways of engaging audiences with fashion. Through exhibitions and multidisciplinary immersive experiences presented in Denmark, Sweden, Germany, France, Spain, Italy, Lithuania, and other countries, she offers alternative approaches to fashion that emphasize creativity, inclusivity, and audience interaction. Her practice fosters multi-sensory, community-driven experiences, positioning fashion as a medium for meaningful cultural dialogue and shared connection. Serena’s work has earned her significant recognition, including a degree with honors from the Royal Danish Academy, the Design and Crafts New Talent grant awarded by the Danish Arts Foundation, and others.