Calgary Fashion

Parkshow Fall 2009

With a population of over a million it'd be very difficult to call Calgary a small town. However, it is at times accurate to say that everybody knows everybody. Communities and groups that make up the city are not autonomous, they're all interconnected, it's the only way for these communities to survive.

Parkshow, the fundraiser for Parksale brings together the creative communities of Calgary and supports the independent artists who have eschewed the consumer driven sensibilities of the current generation to slave away at doing what they love.

Kara Chomistek, Parkshow Event Coordinator, explains how the idea came about.

"There was a group of us from the University and ACAD talking about how there is not much opportunity to make a profit while selling their [the artists] work." Chomistek points out there are a lot of opportunities to show their work, however there are usually high commission fees or high vendor fees. "We though it would be kind of cool just to have a space where people can come sell their stuff and chill out on the grass."

Held once a year in June on the University of Calgary campus, the event is void of entrance fees or vendor fees. To make the sale a reality it seemed natural to create a fundraiser like Parkshow.

"Parkshow is a fundraiser so that we can continue to make this a free event for all involved," says Chomistek. The first Parkshow Spring 2009, took place in February at the Artlife Gallery. The small venue was filled to capacity as models walked the runway in two rooms, showcasing the upcoming talents of Calgary's fashion community.

For the Fall fashion season, Parkshow Fall 2009 takes place September 12 at a new venue. Inspired by the floor to ceiling organ at the Arrata Opera Centre, this seasons' show will feature fashions from 13 local designers, including an online vintage shop and a jeweler.

The art will be on display the whole event with doors opening at 9 p.m. After the 10 p.m. show there will be a special performance by House of Dangerkat. Kaiti Pasqualotto's troupe of the wackest dancers Calgary has to offer is the perfect way to get the party started. Pasqualotto will be featuring her scamper pants which will also be available for sale at the midnight sample sale along with dance party to take place after the performance.

With the shorter days and cooler nights upon us it's the time of the year to celebrate and embrace the short season full of the hottest fashions.

Event details:
Parkshow Fall 2009
Art + Fashion + Party @ Arrata Opera Centre (1315 7 St. S.W)
September 12
Doors open @ 9 p.m. for art show
Fashion show + House of Dangerkat @ 10 p.m
Midnight sample sale and after party
Minimum $10 donation
18+
Featuring:
Caitlin Power
Bridge Bergman
Vanessa Riego
Paradime
Colour Design
Kara Chomistek
Ryan Broadbent
Julie Henrich
Tiffany Wollman
Split Pea Vintage
Light & Soul Apparel
House of Nonie
Jewelery by Samantha Herold



Top photo: The crowd packs Artlife Gallery to see Sarah Tadjdeh model designs by Caitlin Power at the inaugural Parkshow Spring 2009. Photographer: Josiah Bilagot

Bottom photo: Karleen Samson shows of unique fashion at Parksale 2008. Photographer: Kara Chomistek