Lenzing And Merdi Sihombing Create Sustainable Fashion Revolution Collaboration Through Exhibition 'The Flying Cloth'

Photo: Doc. Lenzing Group

JAKARTA - In an innovative collaboration, Lenzing, a leading company in botanical fiber production, together with Merdi Sihombing, an internationally recognized Indonesian textile designer, presents an outstanding work that combines a sustainable cultural heritage for the future.

The exhibition, named The Flying Cloth 25th Journey of Merdi Sihombing, which was held from 11-24 November 2024 at the National Museum of Indonesia, is a clear proof of the unique combination of the beauty of Indonesian traditional fabrics with sustainable fiber innovations such as TENCELTM and LENZINGTM ECOVEROTM.

The Flying Cloth 25th Journey of Merdi Sihombing pampers visitors with a variety of interesting activities. Starting from a spectacular fashion show for Merdi Sihombing's latest collection, to exploring knowledge about the fashion industry through workshops and seminars such as natural coloring, the impact of the fast fashion industry on climate, film and fashion photography as well as ethomathematic ulos design patterns. This activity involves leading practitioners ranging from Merdi Sihombing, Eriek N Juragan, Ferry Zulfrizer, and other experts from the Jakarta Arts Institute,tan Fashion Academy and Bina Nusantara University.

In addition, visitors can also enjoy an authentic cultural experience by watching the traditional Batak Karo wedding ceremony and a gondang performance under full moon light with Gerdang Simalungun, Gondang Samingan, and Gondang Sabangunan Toba which certainly provides an unforgettable cultural experience. For visual art lovers, an amazing installation exhibition will showcase Merdi Sihombing's 25-year visual journey from various parts of Indonesia by involving Heri Pemad as an art director and Ignatia Nilu as curator.

The latest collection of Merdi Sihombing supported by Lenzing not only spoils the eyes, but also inspires us to be more concerned about the environment. Through this collaboration, Lenzing and Merdi Sihombing jointly prove that fashion can be a positive force to drive change towards a more sustainable industry.

Using Lenzing fibers such as TENLTM and environmentally friendly LENZINGTM ECOVEROTM, this collection not only presents aesthetic beauty, but also reduces the negative impact on the environment. This new innovation in the world of fashion combines sustainable fibers with traditional Indonesian fabrics and produces contemporary collections that are not only visually interesting, but are also expected to inspire the fashion industry to switch to more environmentally friendly materials.

Winston A Mulyadi, Commercial Head TX, Lenzing SEA & Oceania knows that Merdi Sihombing is a unique textile and fashion designer because it places community empowerment as the core of its creative process while working in Indonesia. With the same vision, Lenzing and Merdi Sihombing have been in close cooperation since 2008 in promoting sustainable fashion, especially through the use of sustainable fiber from Lenzing such as TENELTM and LENZINGTM ECOVEROTM.

"We are also partnering with Glamatex, a denim fabric manufacturer made from TENCELTM fiber, which is processed by Merdi Sihombing into a special collection and will be exhibited for the first time at this event. We are very proud to be collaborating in this exhibition with Merdi Sihombing, this collaboration is a clear proof of our commitment to support local fashion activists and encourage the transition of the fashion industry towards sustainability. This is also our step in improving public understanding of the importance of eco-responsibility in fashion, "said Winston, in his statement, Tuesday, November 12.

Merdi Sihombing, Designer Textile Indonesia added, during his 25 years of work, he always weaving heritage that focuses on empowering local craftsmen and preserving traditional techniques and proving that fashion can be a force for positive social change and international fashion diplomacy.

"Actively, I always involve women's weaving, seek community development and focus on ethical sources with a sustainable production method to minimize environmental impacts, including for my latest collection in the role of The Flying Cloth. In accordance with my commitment to the environment, I am very proud to be collaborating and to get support from Lenzing to work to this day by prioritizing sustainability to the fashion world in providing hope for future generations," explained Merdi.

The Flying Cloth 25th Journey of Merdi Sihombing Exhibition also involves many talented young artists and cross-field communities for creative collaboration. This event is a forum for Millennials and Gen Z from various circles to learn, interact, and explore the concept of sustaining Afghans' through various interactive experiences that are open to the public

"We see this opportunity as an opportunity to strengthen the network with industry players, designers, and consumers, so that together we can create a better future for the fashion industry. We will also specifically participate in seminars and discussions with the topic 'Sustainable Fashion' which will take place on November 19, 2024. On this occasion, we will discuss sustainable fiber innovation and how collaboration with designers like Merdi Sihombing will have a positive impact on the fashion ecosystem," Winston concluded.