With self-determination at its core, mastering the art of presentation has been a catalyst for self-empowerment inside the practice of Ballroom culture. Using fashion as a vessel of self-expression and affirmation, in line with a long history of excelling in terms of creativity, style, and precision, the Ballroom community’s art reclaims space, demands acknowledgment, and puts forth a commitment to beauty and agency. 

The series Pump, Create, Elevate is dedicated to the whole community, providing a space for gathering that is outside of the traditional dynamics of the balls. Offering a frame to practice and exchange on aspects of the culture, each session focuses on a different facet, such as preparing for the fashion categories, the basics of runway, or how to bring a non-binary gender approach, with invited guests guiding the programme. Centred around the Ballroom community and its members, this space also extends an invitation to others interested in expanding their knowledge, skills, or network. Additionally, there will be a library available in the space featuring publications that delve deeper into the culture, its history, and knowledge. 

Pump, Create, Elevate launches publicly with an atelier workshop: Creative Vessel—Fashion Categories, Ballroom Effects, and Upcycling. Fashion is at the heart of Ballroom culture, influencing everything from the aesthetics of presentation to the impressive effects and requirements for walking in categories such as Runway, Fashion Killer, Bizarre, or Designer’s Delight. Whichever category the outfit is prepared for, it requires creativity, a new spin, and reinterpretation of the given theme. In this four-hour session, experienced designers and practitioners Isabel Jazzabell and ziehe es an, who have supported the German Ballroom scene for years, explain in detail how to approach a given category description from finding and processing inspiration to transforming that into a costume, especially in a sustainable and financially accessible way. 

Participants are encouraged to bring ideas, fabrics, and other items that can be repurposed in the context of the workshop. Accompanied by Ballroom beats and iconic fashion moments, during the session materials and items are readily at hand to be upcycled. The atelier is an interactive and creative experience in the crafting of outfits, while also being a moment to connect with fellow makers and a space for designers interested in collaborating with Ballroom artists. This is a chance for the community to prepare outfits for the upcoming Superheroes Ball by Father David Elle happening in July.

Further dates:

Tue., 10.09.2024
Pump, Create, Elevate: Runway 101 & Lab
with Nekia and Georgina Saint Laurent

Sun., 15.12.2024
Pump, Create, Elevate: ENBY and more
with Ivy Monteiro and live set by Hausvrau