The world of fashion and art is an endless source of inspiration, where new ideas, styles and trends are born. Today we are talking to artist, designer and fashion illustrator Erna-Elene Totogashvili, whose work combines elegance of lines, richness of colours and deep understanding of style Elene will talk about her creative path, her participation in international competitions and how she manages to create unique works that conquer the hearts of connoisseurs of beauty.
Please tell us how your passion for creativity, design and sewing began and how did it lead you to your profession?
Drawing and making clothes is something I have felt since I was a little girl. I was constantly drawing and sewing, and it naturally became my profession. I got a higher education in fashion and design, after which I opened my own atelier, which is still successfully operating today. My passion for drawing and sewing from an early age, starting with making clothes for dolls, predetermined my professional path.Digital art gives you incredible freedom to experiment: you can instantly try different approaches, edit details, go back to ideas. It allows you to be bolder, because you can always change something. But most importantly, it gives you access to tools that help you express emotions and ideas in a more precise and versatile way.
Where do you find inspiration to create unique graphic compositions and embroideries that distinguish your style in fashion design?
When creating a collection, I start by choosing a theme, then selecting the appropriate materials and details, which I then expand and develop by working on a reference line. Similarly, when creating a drawing, I choose a theme and work on it until it takes its final form.
You actively participate in various exhibitions and competitions. Tell us about the most memorable events and their significance for you.
Participating in various events has always been an important part of my activities. Particularly significant for me were the Leonardo da Vinci Award in Milan, the participation in the exhibition of contemporary artists in the Louvre and the awards received at the Golden Time Talent competition. I have also exhibited in Sicily, Dubai, India, Malta and Austria. I have also been recognised in my home country as well. Each festival I participate in brings me valuable experience in both fashion design and painting.
How has participating in international festivals changed your perception of fashion and art?
International festivals have greatly broadened my horizons and provided invaluable experience, showing me how fashion and art can go beyond the ordinary. Networking with talented people from all over the world has inspired me to take new approaches that enrich my creative process.
How do you adapt your design ideas to different cultural contexts when working on international platforms?
Adapting design ideas to different cultural contexts requires a deep study and understanding of the language of tradition. I immerse myself in local art, history and daily life to find inspiration. These aspects offer invaluable insights and help design resonate with culture while maintaining my own unique perspective.
What are the challenges and joys of running your own studio, and how does it affect your creativity?
In my workshop I work on creating both collections and everyday clothes, fulfilling orders – from sketch to materialisation. I do everything that gives me new stimuli and opportunities for development.
What changes in the fashion industry have you noticed recently and how do they affect your work?
Two major trends today are sustainability and inclusivity. Green practices are being prioritised and brands need to integrate them into their core values. I am inspired by the opportunity to create designs that are personalised and targeted at a wide audience.
What exhibitions or events in the fashion and art world do you consider a must-see and why?
Events such as the Met Gala and fashion weeks in Paris and Milan are iconic. Art Basel is another important event that unites the world of fine art. Golden Time Talent was also a discovery and a great success for me.
How do you see the development of your studio in the next five years and what goals do you set for yourself? Are there specific projects you want to realise?
In the next five years I am looking to expand my activities and plan to open an educational institution where I will teach drawing, sewing techniques, construction, modelling, as well as helping to create collections and organise shows. I also plan to collaborate with international artists and designers, and releasing sustainable collections using native patterns I believe will have a significant impact on the fashion industry.
What does it mean to you to be a member of the League of Artists of the Georgian Artists Union and Friends of the Arts? How does this organisation support your development as an artist and designer?
The Artists‘ Union gives me a lot of support: I participate in exhibitions organised by it at different times of the year, as well as in the activities of the Artists’ League and the Friends of Art. Thanks to the Union, I had an interesting project in Switzerland, where my paintings aroused great interest.
What advice would you give to aspiring designers and artists who want to create their own unique style?
Experimentation and introspection are key to creating a unique style. I advise aspiring designers to learn different techniques while exploring current artistic trends. The most important thing is to stay true to your personal experience, because that is what makes the work unique and emphasises the author’s individuality.
The work of Elene Totogashvili (ElenErna) is a shining example of how talent, diligence and the constant search for new forms of expression make it possible to create unique and memorable works. Global Talent Confederation would like to thank Eleni for sharing her story and her vision. We are confident that her work will continue to delight and delight connoisseurs of beauty around the world.
