This year’s Triumph Inspiration Award showcases 31 magical looks by lingerie designers around the world.
Our high-flying Triumph Inspiration Award film shows all 31 shortlisted lingerie designs on elegant models floating through the night sky. Every year the Triumph Inspiration Award invites students worldwide to look into the future of underwear, and in 2012 they took inspiration from the traditional Chinese symbols of the lucky dragon and the loving butterfly. Hong Kong photographer and filmmaker Wing Shya captured the models mid-air, in an aerial battle and a pirouetting dance through the dusky woods. It brings to mind the spectacular kung fu fight scene at the end of Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon, leaping through the bamboo forest, or the Sailor Moon manga’s magic schoolgirls in space. As the Chinese philosopher Confucius used to say, in the 5th and 6th centuries BC, “Where so ever you go, go with all your heart!” With that in mind, we wish the very best to all 31 triumphant finalists, and hope that all their dreams come true… One lucky winner will be announced on Friday 19 October at a glamorous awards ceremony at the Minsheng Art Museum, Shanghai, and his or her designs will grow into a beautiful mini-collection. Now, watch Wing’s videos of the dancers walking in the air, on the stage and behind the scenes.
Text: Dean Kissick
Film and Photography: Wing Shya
