‘Wear No Animals’: Exposing The Cruelty Behind What We Wear Through Art

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First published in Sanctuary Asia, Vol. 34 No. 2, February 2014
Photo Courtesy: Bates Pangulf.

Sanctuary Asia in association with Bates PanGulf reached out to young, impressionable minds by organising an art exhibition in Dubai from February 16-20, 2014.

People were asked a simple question in the form of an innovative activation platform, which showcases intricately designed sculptures of fashion products. The activation prompted an interaction with viewers by urging them to flip a simple switch that would subject the sculpture to light from a lamp preinstalled at the bottom. The sculpture is designed in a way to cast a unique shadow of the animal that was abused to manufacture a particular fashion accessory.

“Art has been the answer for some of the biggest problems in the world. With 'Wear No Animals' we are trying to create awareness about this grotesque practise of consuming fashion products that are produced as a result of animal abuse," said Senna Hegde, Creative Director, Bates PanGulf.

The fashion and cosmetics industry is a thriving one in the consumerist city of Dubai. Many products that are made by the illegal slaughter of wild animals are used here.

"It has been a constant struggle to try and protect animals from the forces of urbanisation and the resulting exploitation. We are trying to sensitise people about how a small change in their consumption habits could save millions of animals through this campaign," said Nishant Shah, Copywriter, Bates PanGulf.

The installations will also be put up in schools, malls and office atriums in Dubai to throw light on the issue of animal exploitation in a way that is both striking and informative.

“Wear No Animals is giving a voice to those vulnerable animals that become a part of this wildlife trade. I am extremely excited to be associated with a campaign that has a potential to become a activist movement," said Suneesh Menon, Business Head, Bates Pangulf.

Learn more: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LftPzI56wPc.

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