The Intersection of Fashion and Art

A collaboration by Michael Cacnio and Robbie Santos combines the tactile beauty of fabrics with the structural elegance of brass.

By Art+ Magazine
December 27, 2024

Michael Cacnio x Septieme Rebelle “Forged Through Labor”

Exhibited in December at Art Lounge Manila at Molito Lifestyle Center, Alabang, Resplendence masterfully intertwines the world of sculpture and haute couture.

Acclaimed sculptor Michael Cacnio and fashion designer Robbie Santos of Septieme Rebelle have fused their expertise to create a unique collection that blends the tactile beauty of fabric with the structural elegance of brass. Their collaboration has resulted in an exhibition that challenges the traditional distinctions between fashion and art.

Cacnio first conceived of combining fabric and brass in his sculptures. He found himself fascinated by the potential of merging these contrasting materials. His friend, Robbie Santos, was one of the first to purchase one of Cacnio’s experimental sculptures—a piece titled “Rosario.” Santos recounts that the collaboration came about during the pandemic.

The idea to collaborate came as a way to distract themselves from the uncertainty of the pandemic.

For Cacnio, the collaboration presented a great opportunity to merge their individual talents. He recalls, “Robbie and I were neighbors, and we often found ourselves discussing creative ideas. Recognizing his talent and unique perspective as a designer, I suggested we collaborate to fuse his designs with my sculptures. It felt like a natural progression.”

The process of collaboration was smooth as they had open communication and respect for each other’s expertise. Cacnio, with his focus on the structural and design elements, would often bring ideas to the table, selecting references and images that guided the direction of the pieces. Santos delved into the artistic and design execution using fabric.

The collection created by Cacnio and Santos consists of both tabletop sculptures and wall-mounted art pieces. “The tabletop sculptures are intimate yet striking, showcasing the fluidity of fabric alongside the rigidity and elegance of brass,” says Cacnio. The sculptures take this concept to a larger scale, where the flowing fabric is integrated into intricate brass frameworks, creating dynamic compositions that feel both grounded and ethereal.

Santos adds, “There is no work that I did single-handedly. The sculptures were made first, and then my team cut and draped the fabric. We would bring it to Mike so he could put the finishing touches on the pieces. It was a process full of back-and-forth and editing.”

Michael Cacnio x Robbie Santos “Flowing with Flair” 23.5 x 19.5, Brass on Fabric, 2024

Both Cacnio and Santos share an appreciation for the synergy between fashion and art. Cacnio believes that the two fields are inherently complementary, stating, “Fashion and art both serve as powerful forms of self-expression and creativity.” Fashion acts as a wearable canvas, while art explores abstract ideas and pushes aesthetic boundaries.

“When combined, fashion transcends its functional purpose and becomes a medium for artistic storytelling, while art gains a new layer of accessibility and tangibility through wearable forms.”

Michael Cacnio x Robbie Santos “Gossamer Dreams” 23.5 x 19.5, Brass on fabric, 2024

Santos offers his own view. “It depends,” he reflects. “The concept isn’t new.” Art has often been merged with fashion, whether it’s through printed fabrics or incorporating fabric into art. “However, it must have been a long time since an entire series has been devoted to using fabrics and draping them on brass pieces, like what we have now.”

For Cacnio, the collaboration represents an exciting opportunity to explore new dimensions in his work. “It pushed me to step out of my comfort zone and experiment with new techniques and materials, adding more depth and meaning to my work.” He adds that Robbie’s expertise in fabrics opened up endless creative possibilities and allowed them to break new ground.

Santos, too, found the experience transformative. Collaborating with an artist requires patience. You have to listen and understand how each person works. If both respect each other’s expertise, “the work can evolve into something beautiful and resplendent.”