Vol. 01 · 2023 — 2024
Couture Divas.
Couture Divas is a two-year project celebrating independent and strong women in diverse settings. The collection highlights the heritage of various patterns, seamlessly blending vintage and modern codes into authentic traditional wear. Each portrait begins with an old black-and-white photograph, then is slowly re-dressed in beads, thread and pop-culture motifs.
Lil Aisha
2023 · 120 × 80 cm · Ed. 7 of 8
Lil Fatima
2023 · 120 × 80 cm · Ed. 3 of 8
Bint Al Almas
2023 · 120 × 80 cm · Ed. 1 of 8
Haboba
2023 · 40 × 60 cm · Ed. 1 of 8
El Miami
2023 · 90 × 70 cm · Ed. 5 of 8
Big Hessa & MC Nadia
2023 · 120 × 80 cm · Ed. 2 of 8
Aaliyah Cruz
2023 · 120 × 80 cm · Ed. 3 of 8
As7ab & Ryders
2023 · 120 × 80 cm · Ed. 1 of 8
Hustla Huda
2023 · 120 × 80 cm · Ed. 2 of 8
Lil Soraya
2024 · 120 × 80 cm · Ed. 1 of 8
In The Hood
2023 · 40 × 40 cm · Ed. 2 of 8
Be Free
2023 · 70 cm diameter · Ed. 1 of 8
Couture Divas, a two-year project by Azaïdé, showcases vibrant and expressive pieces that celebrate independent and strong women in diverse settings. The collection highlights the heritage of various patterns, seamlessly blending vintage and modern codes into authentic traditional wear.
Azaïdé draws inspiration from her grandmother, who has been a profound influence on the artist's life. Her grandmother's stories about advocating for women's rights in North Africa left a lasting impression on Azaïdé, who views her as a role model. The artist's name is also derived from her grandmother's travels to Iran in the '80s, where she discovered the Persian word Azadeh, which translates to "free-minded". This name aptly reflects Azaïdé's artistic inspirations and her mission to promote emancipation and liberation through her Couture Divas collection.
"It is important to highlight the beauty and courage of every woman. Through my work, I pay a tribute to all of them," said Azaïdé on her collection.
Azaïdé's creative process is fascinating. She begins by assembling old black and white photographs and envisions a story about the women she portrays in the image. Through her art, she empowers women to shatter boundaries and explore their full potential by creating new narratives. Azaïdé incorporates modern elements from pop culture to ensure that everyone can relate to her pieces.
Azaïdé's work is a celebration of Arab heritage, showcasing her unique interpretation of traditional Arab attire and dress with a modern twist that empowers and encourages global cross-cultural dialogue, inspiring us all.