The Resurrection Project: QTBIPOC Artists Revive SLC’s Creative Pulse

The SLC Resurrection Project proved to be a landmark event in Salt Lake City’s cultural landscape. Alo Lopez and Emma Dean’s groundbreaking multi-disciplinary event was more than just a showcase; it was a powerful statement that aimed to the city’s vibrant queer and BIPOC artistic community, but also set a new standard for ethical and inclusive fashion. Held at Evo Hotel’s event space on August 17, 2024, the evening unfolded with stunning runway presentations from six visionary designers, each bringing a unique blend of creativity and passion to the stage.

The fashion show’s heartbeat was carried by Nata Choi, aka 2RMBR, who interwove his beats—a mixture of electronic, house, and funk—with a playlist curated by event organizers Lopez and Dean. After the pair introduced the show to over 300 guests, I read an original poem, “The Fabric of Becoming,” grounding the audience in the themes of identity and creativity that resonated throughout the event. 

The first of six designers, Trung Q. Tham (@cowboyinparis) set the runway ablaze to start. With a background that spans from Salt Lake City to Parsons School of Design in New York and a stint studying in Paris, Trung’s work reflected his deep connection to the outdoors and his passion for reworked fashion. The collection’s hand-dyed, bold colors were paired with dramatic heels and heavy black boots, that reflected a powerful, mother-nature-inspired theme. Although much of the fabric was flowy and draped, the undertone was that of structure—fitted trench coats and layered, meticulously constructed button-ups; a lesson in finding movement and freedom within set frameworks. Each model showcased their garments with an inspiring blend of power and grace, imbuing the pieces with intention. 

Lux Bautista with DARKSTAR Design unveiled their first ever striking and show-stopping collection. Drawing from the rebellious essence of ‘80s darkwave and punk rock, Bautista—a DJ herself—chose dark electro-pop with a heavy, pulsating beat for the models to walk to. Each model moved with a distinct, confident rhythm, making it impossible for the audience to look away. The first model showcased the collection’s signature piece—a studded balaclava. Although the model’s face was obscured for half of the walk, the anonymity only amplified the sense of the collections’ unyielding presence. The remainder of the collection displayed upcycled vintage materials, always in commanding black, leather and diamond or silver studs. Through metalwork, patching and hand-studding, her designs didn’t just ask for attention—they demanded it with a fearless, unapologetic flair.

Designer Annie Fletcher, whose collection was paired with Grave Daisy Jewelry, propelled the show forward with an eclectic homage to vintage materials, such as linen tablecloths and embroidered napkins sewn to a velvet bandeau to create a cohesive top. Fletcher used movement to guide her designs, allowing the fabric itself to create the story. Each model’s look was paired with a Victorian-style pendant strung on a black ribbon, often velvet. The jewelry’s darker tones contrasted with the demure and soft features of Fletcher’s designs—a harkening to what has typically been deemed feminine, and then powerfully amplified to the present day. Mixing textures and patterns was this designer’s bread and butter; her patchwork dresses merged nostalgic textiles and modern design. Fletcher’s collection was both timeless and innovative—with every lacy overlay telling a story of future and past. 

Andrew Pitchford, also known as Debauch (@dr.debauch), took the runway by storm with six of his show-stopping designs. A lifelong Utah native raised in Layton, Pitchford’s artistic journey is rooted in his early experiences of self-expression. With limited resources growing up, he developed a unique talent for making his thrift-store wardrobe stand out—an instinct that now drives his innovative designs. One standout look in particular drew an electrifying reaction from the crowd: a pair of meticulously crafted patchwork chaps, cinched by a sleek black-and-silver belt with a minimalist silver chain. Another standout piece—a seemingly classic black button-up—was reimagined with flame motifs and Renaissance-inspired embellishments, giving it a raw, rebellious edge. Paired with a white silk skirt, artfully burned in spots and matched with a paisley bandana and boots, the ensemble defied convention and created a look that was both deeply personal and powerfully alluring. Pitchford’s design philosophy is clearly rooted in spontaneity and creativity, eschewing perfection and uniformity in favor of fearless experimentation. Entirely self-taught, he views fashion as a form of improvisation—a way to push boundaries and inspire others to embrace the unexpected, even within themselves. 

With her collection “Pondering Spiral,” the fifth designer, Madison Eyre, transported the audience into a world deeply rooted in the five elements of nature—earth, air, water, fire and space. Both literally and figuratively knitted together, her artistic vision harmonized masculine and feminine energies within and around us. Each model wore Eyre’s elemental crochet creations, showcasing intricate halter tops and fingerless yarn gloves. The models moved fluidly, almost as if they were unsure whether they were leading the clothes or being led by them; their gliding walks contrasted with the structured look of the blue ripped jeans often paired with the pieces. Eyre transformed delicate red, white and yellow textures into intricate, spiderweb-like designs. A standout piece in her collection featured flamenco-inspired dresses adorned with spiky shell necklaces, celebrating the earth’s natural beauty with a playful yet grounded aesthetic that perfectly encapsulated the essence of her work.

Last to walk was Jaclyn Shahan with J.J. Stücker (@j.j._stucker) and her debuted summer collection, “Hot Flash.” Inspired by the fiery intensity of passion and the highs and lows that accompany it, Shahan’s work imbued techniques like burning, bleaching and fraying. ​​Another unmistakable influence in the collection was the early 2000s; the nostalgic yet fresh designs spoke to this influence while standing firmly in present day. Each model’s outfit held a reference; mini skirts, oversized trucker hats and glittering bedazzlements paired with frayed pieces and modern design edges. Each iconic look was infused with her unique and playful artistic sensibility, along with the signature star accents. This dynamic interplay of textures and forms reflected Shahan’s deep connection to multifaceted creative passion, resulting in a collection that was as daring as it was reflective of the emotional peaks and valleys that inspired it.

The night continued in the gallery space, where local artists such as @gothsloth, @quincy.operations, @nat.aly.art, @jeepers.creeper, @tarynn.thevirgo, @afro_foo and @davisdial showcased their work against the industrial-style walls. 

The afterparty’s tone was charged by dj riri’s high-energy set. Known for her ability to blend diverse musical genres, her set was a celebration of diversity and community and fun. Following dj riri was Eliana’s Universe; her new wave Latin and reggaeton sounds are an undeniable throughline in the local nightlife and music scene. Passionate about nurturing BIPOC talent, Eliana has created inclusive platforms for artists to thrive, most notably by pioneering Utah’s first queer neo-perreo event, “PERRA!” As a trailblazer dedicated to amplifying BIPOC voices and pushing the boundaries of musical expression, Eliana remains a key figure in the city’s evolving music landscape.

As guests sipped on signature cocktails crafted by Lopez and Dean, the celebration of diversity, creativity, and community was palpable. The Resurrection Project not only highlighted Salt Lake’s rich artistic talent but also underscored a shared vision of sustainability and inclusivity, leaving an indelible mark on the city’s cultural fabric. Keep up with The Resurrection Project by following them on Instagram at @slcresurrectionproject.

Read more about local community events:
Banished! Queer Community Reclaims Proposed Antelope Island Exile
Art for the Recovery Community: Accessible, Creative Healing