Ayaka Nishi

I recently had the opportunity to photograph a runway show on the rooftop of the famous Empire Hotel. (Yes, the one where Chuck Bass lives.) Though, this was far different than your average fashion show. It was an exhibit for Japanese jewelry designer, Ayaka Nishi. Just like her jewelry, the show was more performance art than anything else. The models walked down the runway while being controlled by a woman singing, chanting, and playing the electric violin. There was no true runway, as the crowds just made a moses-esque path for the models to walk through. The attire was all black undergarments, which brought your eyes directly to the jewelry.  Ayaka draws inspiration from nature, the human body, and all things organic. It is clear in each piece what natural wonder she has taken inspiration from. The natural unscripted presentation of the runway show flowed harmoniously with the “designs inspired by mother nature.”