Tag: Fashion For A Passion

September 8, 2014

#FFAP2014: Introducing Our Exhibiting Artist Line-up

DALLAS, TX – Dallas non-profit Against The Grain Productions proudly announces the Exhibiting Artists for its much-anticipated 2014 6th Annual Fashion for a Passion charity event on Saturday, November 1st at Three Three Three First Avenue in Downtown Dallas. Event guests will enjoy each artist’s work in an exciting display of varying media, including film, digital prints, paintings and drawings, and can even take home their favorite pieces during the silent auction portion of the evening. Proceeds from the auction will go to Against The Grain’s supported orphanages in Asia, artistic and leadership scholarship fund and community outreach programs. This year’s artist line-up includes emerging and established Asian American artists, as well as four 2014 Against The Grain Artistic Scholarship Winners.

August 12, 2014

#FFAP2014: Introducing Our Musical and Now Dance Performers!

DALLAS, TX – Dallas non-profit Against The Grain Productions proudly announces the performing artists for its much-anticipated Fashion for a Passion charity event. The celebration of Asian American talent, ranging from Filipino to Korean and Singaporean to Thai Americans, will kick off with musical performances by three Kollaboration Dallas artists and, for the first time, a dance performance by a 2014 Against The Grain Artistic Scholarship winner.

The 2014 Fashion for a Passion Featured Performers include:

Heart & Hero
Jonavi
Andrew Yun
- Lizzy Tan

June 19, 2014

Sixth Annual “Fashion for a Passion” Announces 2014 Designer Line-Up

Seven Designers to Feature Exclusive Creations

Saturday, November 1

DALLAS, TX – Against The Grain Productions has selected seven emerging and established Asian American designers to join their elite roster of Presenting Designers at their upcoming Fashion for a Passion charity event, one of Dallas’ hottest must-have fashion tickets and charity events of the fall season. Now in its sixth year, the evening showcases the talent of Asian American artists and springboard for careers, while serving as a place to bring together the entire community to celebrate up and coming talent and raise money for a worthy cause. Designers have launched careers with the event, including Khanh Nguyen of Nha Khanh, who started as a UNT graduate and within a few short years has since gone on to be featured in Saks Fifth Avenue and Neiman Marcus. Hanh Dang of Lucy Dang, went on to win the title of Texas’ Next Top Designer and is now carried in Belk. The event benefits ATG’s supported orphanages, scholarships for student artists and leaders and community outreach programs to inspire, educate and entertain the community. Read more

October 27, 2013

2013 Fashion for a Passion No. 5 Words of Praise

Photo courtesy of David Loi

2013 was landmark year for Dallas-based non-profit ATG Against The Grain Productions, who recently hosted its 5th annual Fashion for a Passion charity event. A unique evening, Fashion for a Passion brings the community together to celebrate emerging Asian American fashion designers, artists and musicians as a platform to promote up and coming talent. This year’s event was hosted at Dallas Contemporary, attended by 365 guests and raised nearly $35,000 for ATG’s supported orphanages in Asia, artistic and leadership scholarship funds and outreach programs.

Read some of this year’s reviews:

FFAP is always a highlight of the year for me. It’s so great to work with such passionate people while doing something we love and giving back to a great cause. The event itself was so fabulous, it seems like ATG somehow make every year a unique experience that is way different than their previous shows. I can’t wait for next year. – Jerry Matthews of Nine Muses, Presenting Designer

I cannot express my gratitude and admiration for ATG and Fashion for a Passion as an organization and group of people. My brand “Lucy Dang” was launched officially with ATG and it has been an amazing 3 years for us professional since our debut. I truly believe by being a part of this charity and helping contribute to this amazing cause, we were blessed tenfolds. – Hanh Dang of Lucy Dang, Presenting Designer

Against The Grain’s FFAP was a successful event not only to help me launch my career as a designer, but also to spread support for education in Asian American communities and to provide funding for orphanages in Asia. This is why I chose to return and participate as a veteran designer. ATG has been a true inspiration, pushing me to accomplish more as a designer while in turn helping to raise awareness for those who are less fortunate. – Danh Ta, Presenting Designer

This year marked my first year, and I am so grateful and honored for the opportunity to chase my dream and in doing so, utilize my time and talent to celebrate the Asian American community alongside artists and musicians to promote opportunities for scholarships funds and raise money for orphanages in Asia. ATG has given me the opportunity, the voice and the extra push in taking the plunge to purse my dream as a fashion designer and launching my own label. – Becky Hollands, Presenting Designer

Thanks to everyone for making it such a fabulous event. I would love to work with ATG in the future. – Vera Wang of Viviona, Presenting Designer

Thanks so much ATG! It truly is an honor to be an Artistic Scholarship winner and I couldn’t be more proud to be a member of the ATG community now. You all inspire me everyday and give me the extra push to continue in my artistic endeavors! Be bold and always live life ‘against the grain.’ – Kendyl Ito, 2013 ATG Artistic Scholarship Winner

It was definitely a classy event! The scene was an incredible display of art, talent and fashion. I am proud to say I was part of FFAP No. 5 not just because of the event, but more importantly the organization that directly benefits the event. – Kassy Levels, Musical Performer

It was so great experiencing the ATG event and performing for it. Everything was well organized and put together on a “next level scale.” Being involved and seeing the true passion of Tammy and her crew’s hard work was really what made the show so great. The models, designers, art and music artist were all on point. I’m just happy we got to perform for the fashion show. Definitely going to be there next year! Thank you, Tammy! – Josh Osgood & Anthony Young of J.O. & Y.O.!, Musical Performer

As a musician and artist myself, I’ve done my fair share of performances. Still, FFAP was a more precious experience than most; in that it was an event supporting aspiring artists follow their dreams. I’ve never felt more blessed and honored to be part of an event. Seeing people come out to not only socialize but support so many different artists, communities and causes were amazing. It shows that ATG is being proactive which is something that we desperately need in this world, in order to better ourselves and do better onto others. – Mijee Park, Musical Performer

I was exhilarated to be a part of the event with other artists of all forms. I had the opportunity to connect with quality people of the Asian community in Dallas…I was home! – Kathy Tran, Exhibiting Artist

It has been my honor to be a part of such a worthy cause again this past year. – Dr. Sam Lam of Lam Facial Plastics and Ova Skin Care, Year-Round Sponsor

It’s all about the kids. Keep up the good work. – Ace Kham of Copy HQ, Year-Round Sponsor

I am privileged to be involved with Against The Grain as it continues to organize wonderful events as a platform for rising Asian Americans and donate all its net profit to orphanages in Asia and creating scholarships for students seeking degrees in the arts. – John Ting, Esq. of Law Office of John Ting

Against The Grain’s Fashion for a Passion showed off some very talented young designers and singers whose donations along with the audiences support helped raise money for a great cause. Having never attended an event like this, I was impressed with the entire production which involves so many people donating their time to make this event a success. – Jeff Lanscek, Portfolio Administrator of Baldrige Asset Management, VIP Guest

The ATG Fashion Show was a fun and fashionable event with an array of talented artists. It was a great way to mingle with local designers and see their beautiful designs, all while benefiting a great cause. – Valerie Huggard of Senior Accountant at SEI, VIP Guest

FFAP No.5 was an incredible milestone event which I am incredibly proud and humbled to have been a part of as a board member and a presenting designer for Cykochik Custom Handbags. Everyone came together for ATG’s cause and produced another high-caliber event. I am inspired and moved by all the talents involved! – Nikki Duong Koenig, Presenting Designer

I have had the privilege of show casing my collection with ATG since the launch of the very first Annual Fashion for a Passion, and it is heart warming to watch how the show and the organization as a whole has evolved over the years. She show has become such a spectacle every year and provide platforms for emerging designers like me to further our careers. I admire ATG so much for their dedication to better the community, and truly appreciates the opportunity to use my talents to support such a great cause. – Kim Pham, Presenting Designer

Even though I did not physically attend the event, it was an honor to participate and have my work be a part of the show! The work ATG does is truly exceptional. – Xiaoye Jiang, 2013 ATG Scholarship Winner

Fashion for Passion no. 5 was my third year of supporting for this great cause. I am so honored to be a part of it and very happy that I could be able to contribute to the cause. I am so proud of how everyone came together, supported, and worked so hard to make the event became another successful year. I am looking forward for next year event with bigger progress, bigger success. Thank you so much for letting me be a part of an amazing cause – Cac Lam, Presenting Designer

Pictures from the event can be viewed on the ATG Facebook Page or ATG Flickr Page, courtesy of David Loi, Chi Tran and Ivy Do.

See highlights from D Magazine.

Read DFW Style Daily’s Coverage by Heather Lettieri.

Read Asia World Media’s Coverage by Anthony Tran.

For more press/media information on the event, please contact Elizabeth Dinh or Annie Tran at pr@againstthegrainproductions.com.

ATG Against The Grain Productions, a Dallas-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, promotes Asian American cultural awareness through compelling media projects and raises funds for international orphanages. In addition to giving out annual scholarships to exemplary Asian American student leaders and those pursuing a degree in the arts, they also produced the feature documentary, Operation Babylift: The Lost Children of Vietnam, which has screened at over a dozen film festivals nationwide and received the Audience Choice Award for Best Feature Film at the Vietnamese International Film Festival and the Documentary Audience Choice Award from the Philadelphia Asian American Film Festival. For more information, visit www.AgainstTheGrainProductions.com or www.TheBabylift.com.

October 3, 2013

Exhibiting Artists Reveal New Depths to Fifth Annual Fashion for a Passion

DALLAS, TX – Dallas-based non-profit ATG Against The Grain Productions puts on more than just a fashion show every year; the innovative organization’s overall purpose and goal is to support and promote Asian American artists, and this event has become a platform to share fashion, music and the latest emerging art. The anticipated Fashion for a Passion No. 5 will be held at the Dallas Contemporary on Saturday, October 12th from 6:30 PM – 10:00 PM, and this year there will be an eclectic mix of eight Exhibiting Artists who represent different genres and styles. Guests will not only get to view but even bid to own one of a kind pieces from this granted group of rising stars, including ATG Artistic Scholarship Winners DJ Wang, Grace Kwon, Xiaoye Jiang and Catherine ‘Kit” Zauhar, alongside local artists Jody Pham, Trung Vuong of Loyal K.N.G, Kathy Tran and Cameron Lee Phan. From photography to painting and even the newest addition of short films, several types of art media created by Asian American artists will be on display for guests to enjoy. Proceeds of the event go to benefit ATG’s supported orphanages in Asia, artistic and leadership scholarship funds and outreach programs.

“What ATG is trying to do is not only encourage art appreciation but also to build a community of artists and bring together those who love it and are passionate about it to support one another,” said ATG President/Founder Tammy Nguyen Lee. “Whether it’s on a canvas or on a TV screen, ATG wants to share the talent and unique message that these artists have and hopefully bring some inspiration to others.”

There are more ways than one to show how much you love to exhibit your passion through art, and Jody Pham truly exhibits a wide array of creative skill — from providing illustrations for Stripmall Architecture’s last album, creating bag designs for a collaboration with Cykochik Custom Handbags, to illustrating the winning canvas-wrapped cooler for Red Bull’s Canvas Cooler competition this summer. Before donating her pieces to Fashion for a Passion, Jody has previously donated original works for various fundraisers and charity events like Artists Healing Japan in Dallas and Anatomy for Life in the U.K.

“I am thrilled to be an exhibiting visual artist for Fashion for a Passion! I am especially excited to be a part of an event that not only works to help those in need through creative expression, but also brings both the talents and unique struggles of the Asian community to the forefront.”

Most people make their life choices and decisions to better comfort themselves when it comes down to it, but Trung Vuong made his choices by living a lifestyle that commonly beat all odds. A dropout pre-med student, he chose to pursue his passions in the artistic fields through developing his own T-shirt brand, Loyal K.N.G. Throughout the past 4 years since the brand’s inception, Trung, along with his teams of passionate artists and leaders, have grown Loyal K.N.G. into a full-fledged lifestyle brand that sells jackets, button-downs, hats and more.

“It’s an honor to be apart of such a positive cultural community event, and to be able to showcase our artwork at Fashion for a Passion really invigorates our resolve to keep creating and contributing our artwork to the world.”

Beaumont, Texas native Kathy Tran carries around a sketchbook, knows how to handle various professional cameras and some nights may be seen sporting a pair of boxing gloves. Because Kathy likes to do so much, she doesn’t consider herself just a photographer, designer or sketcher – but instead, a creative individual. Kathy is currently studying at Brookhaven College, working on an Associate of Arts degree and plans to transfer to Southern Methodist University to study Creative Writing, all while donating her time to this year’s show.

“It means a great deal to be a part of this event, because it hits home for me in every aspect with the arts, fashion, my culture and the charity connection to the orphanages, because I myself have recently been adopted. I’m living in two worlds of culture and class as a Vietnamese American artist, and Fashion for a Passion ties my worlds together.”

Currently based in North Texas, Cameron Lee Phan is a Vietnamese American photographer whose work focuses on fashion and portraiture. He develops more for his work each year and continues to grow in the field and path that he follows.

“Being a part of the 5th annual Fashion for a Passion is an honor! It means breaking down limitations and paving the road for innovation!”

Five seems to be the magic number for ATG this year, as the organization recently awarded a record five artistic scholarships to graduating high school seniors, all of whom are participating in Fashion for a Passion No. 5. One of the biggest benefits of winning the scholarship as an artist is to be able to be connected immediately to a community of fellow artists and art patrons who can help bolster, mentor and launch these budding careers. Included are 18 year-old Grace Kwon, a Tigard, Oregon native who is majoring in Visual and Fine Arts and 17-year-old Xiaoye Jiang, an adopted Chinese Jew who grew up in Minnesota who is attending New York University double majoring in Photography and Sociology.

Dih Jiun “DJ” Wang just began his freshman year at The Parsons School of Design in New York City, majoring in Communication Design. DJ is Taiwanese from Virginia Beach, VA who has a wide-range of artistic talents, from fashion design to the visual arts.

“Being a part of the 5th annual Fashion for a Passion means being a part of something greater than myself. Something phenomenal. Something inspiring,”

For the first time, ATG is incorporating film into its line-up of exhibited art. “It’s so ironic that we never had film in our previous FFAP,” said President/Founder Tammy Nguyen Lee. “Considering film is my first creative passion, it only made sense to bring it into spotlight now. We’re thrilled to show the work of one of our scholarship winners and partner with The Asian Film Festival of Dallas to bring you some of the coolest ‘visual wallpaper’ to enjoy.”

“I’m really excited to be going to Fashion for a Passion, because I am obsessed with all things fashion, and this will be my first time getting to go to such an event,” said Catherine ‘Kit’ Zauhar, a Philadelphia native who is majoring in Film and Television Production at the elite Tisch School of the Arts at New York University. Art is a deep part of Catherine’s life, and she aims to use her talents to tell compelling stories. “I am so happy and inspired by a lot of current Asian American designers (Anna Sui, Alexander Wang, etc.), and I can’t wait to see what kind of interesting and unique looks are put forth. I feel like fashion is still an industry that Asian Americans are breaking into, so it’s really exciting to be apart of such an interesting and unique time for Asian American designers. I absolutely cannot wait to be in the same room as so many talented Asian American artists!” Her short film, IT WAS FALL, will play on a screen in addition to the short film, THIEF, directed by Jay Chern (a Taiwanese filmmaker who grew up in Texas).

Tickets to Fashion for a Passion range from $50 to $100 and are on sale exclusively online at the FFAP Event Page.

For more press/media information on the event, please contact Elizabeth Dinh or Annie Tran at pr@againstthegrainproductions.com.

ATG Against The Grain Productions, a Dallas-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, promotes Asian American cultural awareness through compelling media projects and raises funds for international orphanages. In addition to giving out annual scholarships to exemplary Asian American student leaders and those pursuing a degree in the arts, they also produced the feature documentary, Operation Babylift: The Lost Children of Vietnam, which has screened at over a dozen film festivals nationwide and received the Audience Choice Award for Best Feature Film at the Vietnamese International Film Festival and the Documentary Audience Choice Award from the Philadelphia Asian American Film Festival. For more information, visit www.AgainstTheGrainProductions.com or www.TheBabylift.com.

September 12, 2013

Emerging Asian American Fashion Designers to Present Latest Collections at Upcoming 5th Annual Fashion for a Passion Charity Event

DALLAS, TX – From swimwear to handbags and high-end women’s apparel, eight Asian American designers will present an array of unique collections at the 5th Annual Against The Grain Productions Fashion for Passion charity event. The calendar will say it’s fall, but the designers have each used inspiration and imagination to create wondrous collections for the event, which takes place from 6:30 pm – 10:00 pm on Saturday October 12, 2013 at the Dallas Contemporary in the Dallas Design District. The event features a runway show, musical entertainment, an art exhibit, live/silent auction and tasty bites and sips — all to benefit ATG’s supported orphanages, outreach programs and scholarship fund.

President/Founder Tammy Nguyen Lee is thrilled to host yet another show. “Each year, so much hard work and dedication goes into the meticulous planning of this event. Our team of volunteers is committed to creating a great evening that brings the community together to showcase incredible Asian American talent and gives them a platform to share their unique vision and voice. It’ll be an unforgettable night for Dallas and for the arts!”

Whether it’s from a veteran or a newbie presenting designer, there is a lot more to expect from this year’s line-up. All based in Texas, each designer shows true passion and spirit when they were asked what they are planning to present at Fashion for a Passion No. 5.

Nikki Duong Koenig | Cykochik Custom Handbags

2013 started out wonderfully for two-time Fashion for a Passion veteran (and ATG’s Vice President) Nikki Duong Koenig. She shared her overall goal at the beginning the year…to be able to fully launch Cykochik full-time and her dream has come true. After successfully raising a $10,000 goal via Kickstarter, she said, “I’m thrilled to celebrate Cykochik’s 10 Year Anniversary at ATG’s 5^th Fashion for a Passion! I believe that everything in life has a cycle, and I’ve come full circle since presenting in 2010,” Nikki said. “My hope for us is to achieve another milestone in fundraising, so that we’re able to contribute more to our causes.”

Vera Wang | Viviona

This is Vera Wang’s first year as a part of Fashion for a Passion, and she’s also the show’s first ever presenting swimwear designer. Both she and ATG are anxious as to what the audience response will be to her collaboration with an architecture firm. Said Vera, “I strongly believe it will be a very positive experience showing with all the talented designers and hopefully, we will be able to follow the footsteps of the presenters in the past seasons.”

Kim Pham

From having a youthful curiosity to a mature mentality, Kim Pham returns to Fashion for a Passion now as a woman who feels her aesthetic has evolved since she presented at FFAP at the tender age of 17 when she was a senior at North Garland High School. Now 21 and a decorated graduate of UNT’s school of fashion and design, Kim said, “I’ve grown up, and I’ve thought more about the business side of fashion and thinking about how it’s marketable. I’m gearing more toward ready-to-wear, unique but more marketable pieces.” Her collection will show an Aztec influence, using gold jewelry, as well as maroon, dark brown and black colors. Additionally, fur and alligator are among the varying textures she will incorporate into her clothes.

Becky Hollands

One source of inspiration for Becky Hollands’ work right now is the theme “Diamond in the Rough.” She hopes to “really take texture and the colors and facets of rough diamonds to my collection.” With a Cantonese mother and European father, Hollands said her biracial background has really affected her perspective on everything, and in some cases, extreme perspectives. Becky described her current work as “Overall, really just playing with movement and space with the composition of my pieces.”

Danh Ta

“What will be different this year is the anticipation,” Danh Ta said. Presenting for another year in a row, Danh will unveil his Spring/Summer 2014 collection. Danh said, “My work is [inspired by] Elizabeth Taylor’s movie, Cleopatra. [I have] taken her iconic role as an Egyptian queen to embody strength and beauty into my next collection.”

Jerry Matthews | Nine Muses

“Last season, fall was the seductress,” Jerry Matthew said. “This season for spring, she is flirtatious,” he explained when discussing how he will showcase both seasons at the event. He returns to FFAP for a second time, although now with the new label Nine Muses, created with co-designer Francesca Viamonte. The label name is a nod to the story about the Goddess of Clarity and how she gave birth to nine muses. Each season, the designers have nine sources of inspiration; Fall 2013 includes strong women of film and pop culture, while Spring 2014 was heavily influenced by supermodels.

Cac Lam | Cac DeMode

Fashion for a Passion always seems to include a graduate from the illustrious The Art Institute of Dallas, and this year we give you Cac DeMode Designs. Based in New York, but living in Texas, Cac’s designs are like her – inspired by the fashion forward, romanticism, femininity, individuality, Eastern and Western designs. There’s no other way to describe it (or her) — eclectic and eccentric.

Hanh Dang | Lucy Dang

They say third time’s a charm, and for Hanh Dang of Lucy Dang, the third time is just as memorable as the others. From watching Hanh Dang grow from a fledgeling designer to being named Texas’ Next Top Designer to winning a $10 million contract with Belk, audience members can truly see what she is made of when she follows her heart. “The first time that I showed, we were emerging, and the second year, we were emerging, but this time around, I feel like we’ve emerged…It feels great to be a veteran,” Hanh said.

Tickets to Fashion for a Passion range from $50 to $100 and go on sale exclusively online starting Thursday, September 12^th at the FFAP Event Page.

For more press/media information on the event, please contact Elizabeth Dinh or Annie Tran at pr@againstthegrainproductions.com.

###

September 26, 2012

2012 Fashion for a Passion Exhibits Work of Emerging Asian American Artists

DALLAS, TX – Dallas-based non-profit ATG Against The Grain Production’s upcoming annual charity event Fashion for a Passion has become known not only for the exciting runway show, but also as an event where guests can enjoy and even bid to own emerging Asian American art. This year’s Exhibiting Artists are an eclectic group that include graphic artist Ha Mai aka “Fur Face Boy,” 17 year-old fashion photographer Ann He, recent SMU MFA Meadows graduate Anh-Thuy Nguyen, Tam Nguyen (brother of designer Khanh Nguyen of Nha Khanh), ATG Artistic Scholarship Winner Thoa Nguyen and Artistic Scholarship Finalist Melissa Woodbridge. Each artist will exhibit a piece as well as donate a piece of their original work in the silent auction. This exhibition, along with musical performances and a runway show, takes place at the Dallas Contemporary at the Dallas Design District from 6:30 PM – 10:00 PM on Saturday, October 13th.

While the name of the event connotes the focus on fashion, the addition of art has become just as much a part of the night’s experience to celebrate Asian American talent. This year, President/Founder Tammy Nguyen Lee tasked and worked with Marketing/PR Director Nikki Duong Koenig (who works professionally as the Creative Director of Envision Interactive and is the founder of Cykochik Custom Handbags) with finding a diverse slate of artists who had a unique point of view, strong and thought-provoking work and who represented the spirit of the organization’s mantra of ‘going against the grain.’ Said Koenig, “I’m truly inspired by this amazing group of young visual artists for their talent, passion and generosity to pay it forward.”

Fur Face Boy

Ha Mai (also known as “Fur Face Boy“) was a kid who loved cartoons, comics, toys, video games, quirkiness, art and style, which led to constantly doodling and drawing whenever and wherever. Like many other artists from Asian families, Mai strived to prove to his parents that he could make his career as an artist and to make them proud. Said Mai, “I’m very excited to be a part of an event that recognizes and celebrates Asian-American artists. I’m hoping that my art / design will remind everyone that I’m still very proud of my Vietnamese roots, values and heritage. Growing up in America with American peers and culture can tend to make you forget about your background, but it can also fuse together to create a bigger meaning to art, life and personality. I hope everyone sees that my art represents that I am not just a single-sided Asian or a single-side American, but Asian American.”

Anh-Thuy Nguyen

From photography to video to performance and sound art, Anh-Thuy Nguyen is a multi-media artist who envelops her work to convey an assortment of feelings and desires. She is a recent MFA graduate of the SMU Meadows School of the Arts. Said Nguyen, “Petite Houses Series is an investigation of miniature houses that I have been working on since 2010. These houses represent one’s dream home, a place full of joy, laughing and love, yet it is just a dream.”

Tam Nguyen

Tam Nguyen comes from a talented family. He is the younger brother of FFAP veteran designer Khanh Nguyen of Nha Khanh. Said Nguyen, “I’m totally grateful for this opportunity to be a part of ATG. Most of all I’m looking forward to checking out all the creative talents. Being around designers and artists at these events can be very energizing and inspiring, especially to fellow creatives like myself. At the moment, I am in love traditional media. I simply paint and draw portraits obsessively.” He will exhibit a stunning portrait piece of his mother, who undoubtedly must be proud her talented son and daughter.

Melissa Woodbridge

This year, several of ATG’s Artistic Scholarship applicants were visual artists, and two were selected to exhibit pieces as a part of the organization’s mission to support the work of young talent. Finalist Melissa Woodbridge is a sophomore at the University of Georgia, and Scholarship Winner Thoa Nguyen is a freshman at the University of Texas at Austin. Both are pleased with the chance to share their work and attend and their first Fashion for a Passion in person. Woodbridge said, “I am incredibly excited to be apart of this amazing event that involves so many passionate, talented people, and I hope that I will be able to contribute with my own love for art and community.”

Thoa Nguyen

Added Nguyen, “It is an honor to be a part of the sea of talented artists featured at the Fashion for a Passion event. Making art has always been such a personal experience for me, so I am grateful for the recognition and the opportunity to share my point of view with other inspirational artists.”

Already starting out at a young age, Ann He of Dallas, TX, calls herself a “full-time nerd” and “a proud Trekkie,” while pursuing being a part-time fashion photographer. She is a senior at Highland Park High School, and remarkably juggles her schedule through cross country, academic decathlon and being a photo student. She has already been featured in several publications, such as Photographer’s Companion (China), Vogue Girl Korea (July 2011) and Elle Girl Korea (January 2011).

Tickets to Fashion for a Passion range from $50 to $100 and are on sale exclusively at the FFAP Event Page. For more press/media information on the event, please contact pr@againstthegrainproductions.com.

October 18, 2011

Pink Memo: Fashion for a Passion is a Stunning Success

http://www.pinkmemo.com/dallas/blog/fashion-for-a-passion-is-a-stunning-success/

SCENE | POSTED BY caroline foster | 10.17.2011 | 03:18 PM

The Third Annual Fashion for a Passion charity event combined art, fashion and music to raise money for Against the Grain Productions, a non-profit focused on promoting Asian-American cultural awareness and supporting orphanages. This year’s event was bigger than ever with over 300 attendees participating in the multi faceted event including a silent auction, art exhibition, musical performances by Duette, Miles Machon, Xwansongs, Dette Buentipo and Dorcas Leung, and a runway show with live auction.

Hannah Jones, Mina Chang, Don, Katarina Vargas, Thomas Mullins

The runway featured work from seven designers including Ann Hoang, Cac Lam, Kyle Ramirez, Hanh Dang, Ninh Nguyen, Judy Yang, and Khanh Nguyen. Each designer showed their pieces and auctioned many of them off as model and actress LeeAnne Locken and Korean actor Randall Park emceed the show. Fashion fiends like Mina Chang, Katarina Vargas, and Aivy Nguyen watched the runway show closely.

Khanh Nguyen, Loi Dang, Jeremy Giroir, Aivy Nguyen

The “Yardleigh” organza dress by Watters was one of the top auction items of the night, along with Nha Khanh’s green cap sleeve dress and nude cocoon dress. Overall the night was a stunning success; a total of $20,000 was raised for ATG. Much of the money will be spent for the international orphanages the organization supports, as well as outreach programs and scholarships for Asian American students pursing degrees in the arts.

Models Jessica Kuo, Dorothy Hino, Danielle Kelso, Alex Zody

All photos courtesy of Ivy Do Photography.

October 7, 2011

2011 Fashion for a Passion Charity Event Breaks Organization Records

Over $20,000 Raised for Orphanage, Outreach Programs and Scholarships

2011 FFAP Presenting Designers. Photo courtesy of Chi Tran Photography

DALLAS, TX – Dallas-based nonprofit ATG Against The Grain Productions hosted its the 3^rd Annual Fashion for a Passion (FFAP) charity event this past Saturday night at Studios 1019 in the Dallas Design District. The show broke organization records with guest attendance of over 300 supporters who joined to raise over $20,000 net for ATG’s supported orphanages in Asia, year-round outreach programs and the Artistic Scholarship to support Asian American students pursuing a degree in the arts. This also includes a $3,000 commitment donated by a sponsor for an additional leadership scholarship, to be awarded next year. The event included a silent auction, art exhibition, musical performances, and a runway show with live auction.

Top auction bids for the night went for Watters’ “Yardleigh” organza strapless gown for $1,000, as well as Nhã Khanh’s green charmeuse cap sleeve dress and nude cocoon dress, which created a bidding frenzy and fetched a combined total of $1,725. The generous designer, who got her start with FFAP and has participated in all three events, quickly donated a third piece for auction to the losing bidder, much to the guest’s delight.

Watters "Yardleigh" Gown. Photo courtesy of Ivy Do Photography

Nha Khanh Green Cap-Sleeve Charmeuse Dress. Photo Courtesy of Ivy Do Photography

Nha Khanh Nude Cocoon Dress. Photo courtesy of Ivy Do Photography

The 2011 FFAP roster of seven designers included Texas’ Next Top Designer finalist Ann Hoang, Art Institute graduates Cac Lam of CacJudi and Kyle Ramirez of Playful Ambitions, Hanh Dang of Lucy Dang, NYC-based menswear designer Ninh Nguyen of NINH Collection, Houston-based Judy Yang and local fashion icon Khanh Nguyen of Nhã Khanh. The show was emceed by actress/model LeeAnne Locken and Korean American actor/comedian Randall Park. Musical guest performers included Duette, Miles Machon, Xwansongs, Kollaboration Houston competition winner Dette Buentipoand ATG Artistic Scholarship Winner Dorcas Leung, who sang a charming rendition of Kristen Chenowith’s “The Girl in 14-G.” The night included an exhibit of work donated by Asian American artists, including actress Karin Anna Cheung, Van Ditthavong, Julene Harrison, Aristic Scholarship winner Monika Hoang, Jin-Ya Huang, Alex Lim, Justine Olivia Lu and Budi Tjoenawan.

Musical performers collaborating on a group number. Photo courtesy of David Loi

ATG Board of Directors. Photo courtesy of Chi Tran Photography

“This year’s FFAP was a huge success,” said ATG President/Founder Tammy Nguyen Lee. “We are so thankful to our hard working Board, volunteers, sponsors, designers, musicians and artists who supported this group effort to give ATG a wonderful night to shine and give light to our cause. We can only be grateful for and humbled by this outpouring of good will.”

Designer Hanh Dang said, “We all came together to raise money and support a greater cause than ourselves. That will definitely leave a lasting impression in people’s minds. I was really impressed with all the strategic planning and coordination that went into pulling this event off. It definitely is on par with any fashion show at Mercedes Benz Fashion week in New York.”

FFAP guests enjoying the show. Photo courtesy of Chi Tran Photography

Continued musical performer, Xuan Nguyen of Xwansongs, “Fashion for a Passion was an exceptional night where artists from all walks of life came together for one united cause and to inspire others to open their hearts to do the same. We are proud to work with ATG to help make life better for our youth.”

FFAP Guests. Photo courtesy of David Loi

Sponsor Kenny Phaxay of Pinkbery summed up his thoughts. “Against The Grain Productions is a wonderful organization where you can see the passion for charity in each of the volunteers and associates. The Fashion for a Passion event has been one of the most organized and successful events I have seen executed.”

To read more reviews of the event, visit Words of Praise. To see photos from the evening’s event, please visit the ATG Flickr site.

ATG Against The Grain Productions, a Dallas-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, promotes Asian-American cultural awareness through compelling media projects and raises funds for international orphanages. Operation Babylift: The Lost Children of Vietnam has received the Audience Choice Award for Best Feature Film at the Vietnamese International Film Festival and the Documentary Audience Choice Award from the Philadelphia Asian American Film Festival. For more information, visit www.AgainstTheGrainProductions.com or www.TheBabylift.com.

October 7, 2011

2011 FFAP: Words of Praise

2011 FFAP Presenting Designers. Photo courtesy of Chi Tran Photography

We all came together to raise money and support a greater cause than ourselves. That will definitely leave a lasting impression in people’s minds. I already knew this was a great cause to be involved in but it turned out better than I could have ever expected. I was really impressed with all the strategic planning and coordination that went into pulling this event off. It definitely is on par with any fashion show at Mercedes Benz Fashion week in New York. – Hanh Dang/Lucy Dang (Presenting Designer)

The show went very well. Everything flowed so smoothly. Everyone worked well together and the talent was amazing. I left feeling like I just came from Hollywood…Everyone was so kind to me, warm, and friendly. – Kyle Ramirez/Playful Ambitions(Presenting Designer)

I am honored to be the first Menswear designer to display a collection at the Fashion For A Passion event this year and to collaborate with Against The Grain Productions to raise awareness and raise funds for underprivileged children around the world. – Ninh Nguyen, NINH Collection (Presenting Designer)

What a great event. Thank you again for this great opportunity. – Judy Yang/JudYang (Presenting Designer)

I had an amazing time co-hosting this year’s Fashion for a Passion. Not only was I able to contribute my time and energy to a worthy cause, but I also was inspired enough to begin my new side career as a runway model. – Randall Park, Actor/Comedian (Emcee)

Fashion for a Passion was an exceptional night where artists from all walks of life came together for one united cause and to inspire others to open their hearts to do the same. We are proud to work with ATG to help make life better for our youth. – Xuan Nguyen/Xwansongs (Musical Performer)

The show was fun and amazing…more than I expected. The atmosphere was simply breath taking. Everyone was having fun and everyone was down to earth.The ATG crew that put this together did an excellent job…I can’t wait til next time. – Chris Cuchapin/Xwansongs (Musical Performer)

FFAP is a great event that showcases all types of artists. We are proud that we had a chance to participate, meet, and gain exposure with fellow Asian American creatives. Thanks for helping us and other unknown artists. We are glad to be apart of this cause.. – Tex Sirisawat/Duette (Musical Performer)

It was an honor to be apart of your event! … Thank you, thank you, thank you for doing what you do! …You are one of most amazing people I know who cares so much and actually does something about it. You got my support anytime! – Karin Anna Cheung, Actress (Exhibiting Artist)

It is such an honor to be a part of this year’s event. Thank you to all of the Against The Grain Productions Team and their tireless efforts in helping bring attention and awareness to a wonderful cause. – Van Ditthavong, Photographer (Exhibiting Artist)

Once again, you and your team presented a fantastic event. I’m happy we could again be a sponsor of ATG, and in particular it’s wonderful that you were able to provide the two scholarships. Congratulations on a successful year and FFAP event! – Milton Lai, Hotels.com (Producer Sponsor)

It was an honor to be apart of ATG’s charity event and see everyone’s hard work come together. I look forward to ATG’s positive outreach to help children around the globe. – Daniel C. Eng, Engvest (Director Sponsor)

I am really proud to have supported Tammy’s efforts to help orphanages. I think she is a one of a kind person with an amazing spirit, incredibly generous heart, and true talent. – Dr. Sam Lam, Lam Facial Plastics & The Spa at Willow Bend (Star Sponsor)

ATG is a great organization and making a difference in the community. I’m so honored that they invited Lumi to be part of an fun & extraordinary event, FFAP. – Susie Bui, Lumi Emapanada & Dumpling Kitchen (Couture Sponsor)

Our utmost gratitude to be able help towards such an amazing cause! Thanks – we had so much fun and can’t wait for more upcoming events! – Kandy Tran, Glitz & Glam Event Rentals (Couture Sponsor)

Against The Grain Productions is a wonderful organization where you can see the passion for charity in each of the volunteers and associates. The Fashion for a Passion event has been one of the most organized and successful events I have seen executed. Thank you so much for letting myself and Pinkberry be a part of something so wonderful. We would love to work with you guys again in the future. – Kenn Phaxay, Pinkberry (Couture Sponsor)

We had such an amazing time and are always happy to attend and work with you for such a great cause…The collections were fabulous, food was great, and venue was beautiful; please keep us in mind next year! – Damaris Grogan, Page Parkes Management (Couture Sponsor)

Fashion for a Passion was a fantastic night of fun and entertainment! It was so incredible to see the talent of the clothing designers and to visually see what they created up close. I cannot wait until next year! – Michelle R. Byrd, Ben E. Keith (Couture Sponsor)

Being able to say the we were apart of this amazing orginization and working with such inspiring people (Against The Grain) is such an honor. Every person that we have come in contact with and associated with this event/cause is such an absolute joy. We truly look forward to working with again and again. – Dianne Gomez, Essensuals London (Service Provider)

As always, it was a great honor to be invited by Tammy and the rest of the Against The Grain organization to help them raise money for the orphans of Vietnam. I’m always inspired by charities that are driven so passionately to help the less fortunate, so I’m glad I was able to donate some of my time and skills to such a great cause. I hope Tammy continues to push forward with this project, because I’m happy to see the orphans be given a voice… – David Loi, Kaboga.com (Service Provider)

Working with ATG has been a blast. Everything always comes together in a top-notch fashion. The creativity and talent of ATG hands-down make FFAP the huge success that it is every year! – Travis Petty, Shine 49 Media House (Service Provider)

Studio Lounge had a wonderful time at Fashion for a Passion this year. The whole ATG team was wonderful to work with. I think everyone had a lot of fun and the pictures turned out great. – Seth Pascale, Studio Lounge (Service Provider)

I’m very proud to be apart of ATG again this year. It gets better every year! ATG is such a meaningful organization that inspires many of us to lend a hand, and I’m honored to be apart of. I believe in sharing and giving back to those that are not as fortunate. Keep up the great work, ATG!!! Thank you! – Nini Nguyen, Nini Style (Service Provider)

What a wonderful event and cause you are working on. Many thanks for inviting me to take a small part in your cause. Your friends, family, and staff were all so very wonderful to meet. Outstanding group of young up and coming professionals and artists. I’m very excited for the future of FFAP. – Thomas Mullins, Runway Model

I thoroughly enjoyed it and was happy to be a part of a great cause. – Ben Panchasarp, Runway Model