LCF BA (Hons) Fashion Design and Development alumna, Daniela Raytchev, has made the transition from student to contemporary artist after curating her own solo exhibition entitled ‘Progress not Perfection’ at Notting Hill’s Debut Contemporary gallery.
The exhibition aims to raise awareness about addictions, pass on a positive message of hope, that recovery is possible, and help to lose the stigma that surrounds it. Daniela’s work will be unveiled to the public for ‘Exhibition of the Year’ at the West London gallery on 15 October 2015. The project is held in support of B-Eat, a charity that helps people affected by eating disorders.
Daniela Raytchev graduated from BA (Hons) Fashion Design and Development before curating solo exhibition ‘Progress not Perfection’ on addiction. Photo Credit: Debut Contemporary Gallery
Originally from Bratislava, Slovakia, Daniela’s art offers a subjective expression and perception of the world, through her figurative and abstract drawings. She works with charcoal, ink, acrylics and experiments with digital collage in her art, creating abstract portraits with fluid colour and intricate drawings.
The ‘Progress not Perfection’ exhibition is an important project for Daniela, as she struggled with bulimia for eight years, and the project allowed former addicts to open up through the exhibition. The artist wanted to deliver a powerful message designed to positively change lives. She hopes her past experiences with addiction, and her artistic endeavours will help to raise awareness about addictions and more importantly disperse of former stigmas.
The project has led to her being nominated for Selected Artist for 2015, and has already caught the attention of celebrities such as Gok Wan, Gail Porter, Jeff Leach and Kevin Dooley. TV Presenter and designer, Gok Wan said, “I love this project as it breaks down the myth of addiction. To learn about oneself is not a job, it’s a right – Thank you.”
Comedian and sex addict Jeff Leach, who also supports the exhibition and the charity said, “Art is the only thing that truly gives me freedom from the darkness that riddles my mind. It seemed right to support an artistic exploration into that darkness.”
‘Progress not Perfection’ is being held in support of Beat, the UK’s leading charity supporting anyone affected by eating disorders or difficulties with food, weight and shape. Daniela’s solo exhibition will run from the 15-21 October 2015.
Photo Credit: Debut Contemporary Gallery
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