Fuze Genesis: The future of creative community By Alex Clovis

Following on from last year's "Utopia", Fuze returned for its annual show following the theme of Genesis. Featuring the work of over 140 of Bristol's most talented and upcoming generation of designers, dancers, musicians and models it is safe to say this was an event like no other. Alex Clovis had the privilege of attending this year's event on behalf of Original Magazine to gain some insight into this event years in the making. Here are their thoughts. Moving on from Utopia… Fuze continues to represent a beautiful model for the future of creative collaboration. Setting itself apart, the organisation establishes its own identity, this event was much more than just a fashion show. It was an event embodying the idea of creative community from the get go. With the sun shining, it was the perfect time to be outside. Surrounded by stall after stall fuze achieved a creative bazaar of sorts. Tying small businesses into the event, you could decorate your teeth with jewels, your neck with jewellery and maybe top it o with some fresh kicks and clothing with each and every one of the stalls bringing something unique to the event. This atmosphere was all playfully tied together with the open and comfy seating areas, and a professional DJ playing tunes in the background. If the event had ended there, trust me, it wouldn't have been a waste. Ushered to the stage seating, fog lled the scene with lights painting clouds of colourful smoke. All the built-up excitement from before the show wouldn't dissipate until the very end. Finally, the show started with a wondrously choreographed dance sequence that failed to disappoint. Queue the models going down the catwalk and the show was underway, each series of models showing o the work of each designer fuze had collaborated with. It wasn't too long before it was taken a step further, and we were presented with an interdisciplinary treat of choreographed dance, singing and catwalks occurring simultaneously. With each gripping and seductive dance, each model dashing down the walk in style, each song sung by a performer, I felt not just character but a deep sense of community. This is the unique identity of fuze, each performer brought not just their art with them but themselves and openly shared it with one another and the audience. We were presented with a nebula of artists really representing the idea of community. With notions of body-positivity, queerness and creative accesibility being beautifully adressed and normalised throughout. This show was the best exploration of modern creativity I expect to see for a while, but don't just take my word for it. To gain more insight into Fuze, what Genesis means and what it took to achieve this artistic feat, check out my interview below have some of the performers and staff involved. Content provided and Written by Alex Clovis www.arekuro.com | @arekuroko