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Stay up-to-date with the latest news from World of WearableArt Sign up for our audience newsletter and be the first to know about ticket sales, exclusive offers, behind-the-scenes insights, and upcoming WOW experiences. Don’t forget to join the Designers newsletter if you are interested in entering the WOW Competition.
Since it was established in 1987 WOW has embraced the worlds of art and design, running an international competition that culminates in a spectacular theatrical performance each year. The exhilarating WOW Show is a visual feast for audiences and an opportunity for designers to be recognised and celebrated on the world stage.
The competition is open to anyone over 18, globally. Designers enter from the worlds of fashion, industrial design, architecture, art, and many more. Experienced designers, first time entrants, and students, all bringing exceptional creative concepts to life. Anything that is wearable art can find a place on the stage, as long as it is original, innovative, and well executed.
Two rounds of closed judging determines the Awards for each year. The judging panel comprises WOW Founder and Resident Judge, Dame Suzie Moncrieff, and guest judges who are invited to be part of the panel.
Each year there are six section themes for designers to be inspired by when entering the competition. This includes three recurring sections; Aotearoa, Avant-garde and Open, and an additional three sections which are unique to each annual competition.
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The competition offers over $200,000 NZD in prize value. Up to 25 awards, including the coveted Supreme WOW Award, are awarded to finalist designers each year. Designers are also offered the opportunity to apply for exclusive residencies and internships with global creative companies; to learn and build on professional portfolios of work.
Each year, winners of the WOW Awards are added to an incredible collection of garments. Here you can browse through our digital collection of groundbreaking wearable art as previously seen on the WOW stage. You will read about the designers and the inspiration behind these stunning works of art and see their impressive awards and accolades.
Become part of an incredible and supportive international design community. Designers connect with us and each other through our exclusive online group and if you are chosen as a finalist, you are able to connect with other finalists both online and in person in exclusive forums and events.
Stay up-to-date with the latest from World of WearableArt. Sign up for our audience newsletter and be the first to know about ticket sales, exclusive offers, behind-the-scenes insights, and upcoming WOW experiences. Don't forget to join the Designers newsletter if you're interested in entering the Competition.
Sign up as a designer to receive the newsletter.
WOW is a world renowned wearable art experience, where an annual design competition culminates in a spectacular show combining theatre, art, fashion, music, & performance.
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