Exhibition - Outside

In the world of Paris Fashion Week 2022, while the shows were happening behind closed doors, Liz Sunshine took to the streets to photograph the people standing outside. The “Outside” series became a reflection on fashion, clothing, and those who exist on the margins of the fashion world. These subjects, often seen as external to the spectacle of runway shows, are as much a part of the fashion story as those within the industry’s exclusive bubble.

This body of work extends into Melbourne in 2023, continuing the exploration of what it means to be ‘outside’ of fashion. The series invites us to consider not just the physical presence of these individuals on the fringes, but their emotional experiences with fashion. To dress up and stand out requires courage - to want to be seen and to express one's identity through clothing is a profound act. But what happens when the world places you outside the accepted norms of fashion?

"Outside" delves into the emotional complexity of being judged by what we wear, yet also connects to the liberating feeling of embracing one’s identity. It shifted Liz’s approach from critique of fashion to deep curiosity about the people who live outside the mainstream gaze. Who are these individuals? Why do they dress the way they do? And what do clothes represent for them, in a world that often judges so harshly based on appearance?

Being ‘outside’ fashion is not only about literal presence on the margins, but an emotional space where judgment is both a weight and a tool for self-expression. Whether one chooses to stand out or blend in, clothing is a personal language that tells the story of who we are. These images challenge the viewer to confront internal and external judgment and reconsider what fashion, style, and personal expression truly mean.

Through this work, Liz hopes to spark a conversation about the judgments we make based on appearance, and to encourage a more compassionate approach to both others and ourselves.

She asks: How often do we feel connected to others based on the way they dress? And how quick are we to judge based on our own perceptions? If we let go of judgment, could it open up new opportunities for connection and kindness - both to others and within ourselves?

To launch this series, Liz extended an open invitation to the broader community, engaging with strangers in a unique and personal way. On the morning of the event, Liz bought 100 coffees for people passing by the exhibition space, offering a simple gesture of connection and warmth. This initiative invited individuals to pause, reflect, and engage in conversation, breaking down the barriers between artist, subject, and the public. By sharing a coffee, Liz created an accessible entry point to explore the themes of the series - inviting others into the larger conversation about fashion, identity, and judgment, while also creating a space for spontaneous interaction. This gesture was not only about art but also about building relationships and fostering a sense of inclusivity and community, much like the essence of the "Outside" project itself.