Plantation, Florida (October 3, 2022): In an epic close to Hispanic Heritage Month, Puerto Rican designer Theo Azael presents two controversial collections in a one-night fashion show and month-long exhibit at Island SPACE Caribbean Museum, America’s only pan-Caribbean heritage museum.
As a teaser to the events, the Puerto Rican designer unveiled a stunning window display on Friday, September 15. Azael will be the first creator to feature a fashion couture collection in the museum. The fashion show, presenting his “Hipster Necromantic” collection, will be presented on Saturday, October 14. The exhibit titled “The Unearthly Worlds of Theo Azael,” in the museum’s Gallery B, which will be on display from October 14 through mid November, explores the intersection of esoteric energy and high fashion.
Tickets to the fashion show are available at islandspacefl.org/theoazael.
The collections shown in the fashion show and exhibition are sure to become a hot topic, as they challenge traditional notions of what fashion can be. Some critics have accused the designer of being exploitative and appropriative, while others have praised him for his creativity and innovation. The media has deemed him “The Genius of the Esoteric Deconstructed Couture World,” as his groundbreaking concepts birth a whole new take on combining the worlds of fashion and culture.
Beyond the Metaphysical
Theo Azael is known for his use of unconventional materials and techniques. His garments often incorporate crystals, herbs and other objects that are believed to have spiritual properties.
“My hope is that my work will help to raise awareness of the power of esoteric energy,” he said. “Our world is beyond the metaphysical elements that we see.”
Azael is not interested in pleasing everyone. He is an avid spiritualist of the Yoruba religion who creates work that is both thought-provoking and challenging, sparking conversations about the role of spirituality in fashion and his connections with the underworld. He uses his platform to raise awareness of the Yoruba religion and other Caribbean spiritual traditions.
“My work is influenced by my faith,” he said. “It’s at the core of my design work.”
A self-taught artist who grew up in Puerto Rico, Azael began his career as a fashion designer in Miami, Florida, where he quickly gained a reputation for his unique and innovative style. His first collection was called JERICO EXTRAVAGANZA BOHÉME COUTURE. He was also the featured opening runway designer for Fort Lauderdale Fashion Week at the Broward Convention Center in April 2023.
Island SPACE president Calibe Thompson said, “We were really excited to have Boricua influence at the museum for Hispanic Heritage Month, and with these exhibits and events, we’re able to extend our celebration of Latin culture even further. The window display is absolutely breathtaking, and in general, Theo’s work makes everything more beautiful!”
Island Society for the Promotion of Artistic and Cultural Education (Island SPACE) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to the advancement of arts, culture, history, and educational initiatives that represent the Caribbean region, in South Florida and the broader diaspora community.
Learn more about Island SPACE Caribbean Museum at islandspacefl.org and on our various social media channels. Visit the facility Thursdays through Saturdays from 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. and Sundays from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. at the Broward Mall, 8000 West Broward Boulevard, Suite 1202, Plantation, Florida 33388. Admission is $10 for adults and $5 for children. Group tours are available by reservation when you call 954-999-0989 or email [email protected].
