05 storytelling
storytelling¶
Zero-Geo Concept: A Journey through Sacred Geometry and Armenian Heritage Introduction
In my designs, I draw inspiration from the intricate and timeless beauty of geometric forms—shapes that transcend aesthetics, embodying profound cultural, symbolic, and spiritual significance. These shapes are not just lines and curves; they are the language of the universe itself, a reflection of the harmony that governs all of creation.
Sacred Geometry: A Universal Language
Geometric forms are at the heart of sacred geometry, a philosophical and spiritual system that connects the physical world to the divine. It is an ancient belief that the universe is constructed through geometric principles, and these patterns can be found in everything from the spirals of galaxies to the petals of flowers. Sacred geometry is a universal language—a language that speaks to the interconnectedness of all life and the divine order of the cosmos.
The Armenian Connection
As an Armenian, I feel a deep and personal connection to these shapes. Armenian culture has long used geometric patterns in its art, architecture, and craft. From the elaborate designs in traditional jewelry to the breathtaking symmetry of ancient churches and monasteries, geometric forms have been central to our artistic expression. These shapes are not simply aesthetic choices but represent deeper spiritual truths and our understanding of the universe.
The Four Elements: Earth, Water, Air, Fire
One of the key aspects of Armenian art and symbolism is the representation of the four elements—earth, water, air, and fire. These elements, often represented through geometric forms, symbolize the fundamental forces of life and the interconnectedness of all existence. Earth, with its stable and grounding qualities; water, flowing and transformative; air, ever-present and expansive; and fire, dynamic and life-giving—each of these forces plays a role in shaping our world, both physically and spiritually.
Geometric Shapes as Symbols of Unity and Eternity
Geometric shapes in Armenian culture are much more than design motifs—they are expressions of spiritual principles. The circle, for example, represents infinity, unity, and the eternal nature of existence. It is a symbol of the divine order, reflecting the cyclical nature of life. The triangle, a powerful form in sacred geometry, represents balance and harmony between the material and spiritual realms. Other shapes, like hexagons, pentagons, and squares, also carry symbolic meanings, representing the interconnectedness of all things and the perfection of divine creation.
The Influence of Kandinsky: From Dots and Lines to Deep Meaning
My fascination with geometric forms deepened when I encountered Wassily Kandinsky’s exploration of dots, lines, and shapes in his book Point and Line to Plane. Kandinsky’s work revealed how these seemingly simple elements could convey profound emotional and spiritual meaning. He argued that art has the power to communicate beyond the visual, tapping into our subconscious and our deeper understanding of the world. His exploration of form as a language of expression and spirituality inspired me to think of geometric shapes not just as elements of design but as symbols of human culture, identity, and existence.
In my garments, I aim to celebrate the deep-rooted importance of these sacred geometric forms. Through Zero-Geo, I combine the richness of Armenian traditions with the universal principles of sacred geometry to create designs that reflect balance, harmony, and unity. These garments are more than clothing—they are wearable representations of the cosmic order, designed to evoke a sense of connection to the earth, the divine, and one another.
Each garment is a canvas where geometric shapes meet natural forms, offering a fusion of ancient wisdom and contemporary fashion. Through the incorporation of sustainable design practices—such as zero-waste methods and natural dyes like bioChromes—I honor the interconnectedness of the material and spiritual worlds.
Honoring Heritage and Looking Toward the Future
Through this project, I aim to bridge the gap between ancient wisdom and modern design. In honoring the geometric patterns and symbols of Armenian heritage, I hope to bring a renewed sense of cultural pride and ecological consciousness to the fashion world. The Zero-Geo collection is not only a tribute to the timeless beauty of sacred geometry but also a call to action for a more sustainable, mindful approach to fashion.
My hope is that these garments will inspire others to explore the deeper meanings behind geometric forms and embrace the spiritual and ecological significance that these shapes carry. By connecting us to our cultural roots and to each other, they serve as a reminder of our shared responsibility to the earth and the universe.
Conclusion
Through Zero-Geo, I invite you to explore the intersection of art, culture, and sustainability. The garments in this collection are more than just pieces of clothing—they are expressions of identity, of the spiritual connection we share with one another and the world around us. By embracing the power of geometric forms, sacred symbols, and sustainable practices, we can create a more harmonious future, one where fashion serves not only to adorn but also to unite and inspire.
Next step¶
I opted to focus on the four elements—water, earth, air, and fire—because they have great symbolic meaning and are profoundly ingrained in Armenian decoration and ancient philosophy. These features indicate a deep connection to nature and are frequently used as the foundation for traditional designs. I started with Water, pulling influence from Armenian linear patterns and Kandinsky's thoughts about the expressive power of lines.
The concept of the four elements: water, earth, air, and fire¶
Water, Earth, Air, and Fire are the four primary principles of life, and they have been represented in art, culture, and philosophy throughout history. These features appear in traditional Armenian ornamentation and designs. Each element has its own symbolic and visual language, which can be conveyed using geometric shapes and linear patterns.
Story telling script¶
Water¶
Opening Scene: Water as the Source of Life (Visual: Flowing river, gentle ripples, sunlight reflecting on the surface, soft water sounds in the background.)
Narration: "Water—the essence of life, the element of fluidity and transformation. In Armenian culture, water is sacred, a force that shapes both nature and art."
Scene Transition: Sacred Geometry in Armenian Ornamentation (Visual: Close-up of intricate khachkars (cross-stones) and monastery carvings, showcasing patterns inspired by water. The camera slowly moves over the details.)
Narration: "Carved in stone, these ancient patterns capture the rhythm of flowing water. They are more than decoration—they hold stories, symbols of eternity, unity, and the unseen forces that connect us to nature."
Scene Transition: Human Connection to Water (Visual: A woman dressed in a Zero-Geo vest, standing near the river, her hands touching the water. Slow-motion shots of her fingers creating ripples.)
Narration: "Inspired by these timeless forms, I bring their essence into my designs. A dialogue between water and fabric, between movement and stillness."
Scene Transition: The Vest as a Living Symbol (Visual: The woman wearing the vest, moving gracefully, letting the fabric respond to the wind and water. A detailed close-up of the vest’s geometric patterns, referencing the khachkar designs.)
Narration: "The vest is more than clothing—it is a story woven from sacred geometry and Armenian heritage. A fusion of tradition and modernity, honoring the wisdom of the past while embracing sustainable fashion."
Closing Scene: Returning to Nature (Visual: The woman steps back into the landscape, the river continues to flow, symbolizing continuity.)
Narration: "Through Zero-Geo, I invite you to rediscover the language of shapes, the harmony of the elements, and the connection between art, culture, and nature."
Earth¶
Opening Scene: The Forest as the Foundation of Life (Visual: The camera moves through the dense, ancient forest—towering trees, roots gripping the soil, leaves rustling in the wind.)
Narration: "Earth—the source of strength, stability, and life itself. It holds our history, our roots, and the stories of generations before us."
Scene Transition: Armenian Ornamentation in Stone and Nature (Visual: Close-up of khachkars and monastery carvings, this time focusing on patterns that resemble mountains, trees, and roots. Slow transition to tree bark, cracked earth, and rock textures in the forest.)
Narration: "In Armenian culture, the language of stone and nature are one. The carvings in monasteries echo the rhythms of the land, preserving the wisdom of the past."
Scene Transition: Human Connection to Earth (Visual: A woman dressed in the Earth vest, walking barefoot on the forest floor, touching the bark of a tree, leaning against a rock. Close-ups of her hands feeling the textures of nature.)
Narration: "The Earth breathes beneath us, grounding us. This vest is a reflection of that connection—a design rooted in tradition, inspired by the harmony between human and nature."
Scene Transition: The Vest as an Extension of the Landscape (Visual: The woman standing still, merging into the natural surroundings—her vest’s patterns resembling the lines of tree bark or the cracks in stone. A slow-motion shot of the wind moving the fabric, blending with the forest.)
Narration: "Through sacred geometry, I bring the essence of the Earth into wearable form. This vest is not just clothing—it is a tribute to the resilience of nature, a reminder of our bond with the land."
Closing Scene: Returning to the Forest (Visual: The woman walks deeper into the forest, becoming one with the environment. The camera lingers on the trees, the soil, and the endless cycle of nature.)
Narration: "Zero-Geo is a journey through the elements—honoring the patterns of the universe, the wisdom of Armenian heritage, and the need for sustainable creation."