Future Archive

An Exploration of Textile Reuse and Handcrafting techniques

This project takes its name from the infamous 1497 Bonfire of the Vanities, when followers of reformist friar Girolamo Savonarola set ablaze luxurious garments, cosmetics, and artworks in a public rejection of Renaissance excess. Today we face new bonfires: The routine destruction of unsold designer stock to protect brand exclusivity; the 2025 fire that ravaged Ghana’s Kantamanto Market - a global hub for secondhand fashion; and the burning mountains of fast fashion waste in Chile’s Atacama Desert. 

These contemporary bonfires beg two questions: Are we so vain that we would let the planet burn for the false economy of fast fashion luxury? And what is real luxury in the face of fast fashion and insatiable consumption?

In July, Future Archive will complete a one-month artist residency at Lottozero in Prato, Italy, followed by further research and development in Florence, Venice, Milan, and Paris. Through research, collaboration, and creation, Bonfire of the Vanities will interrogate these questions — critiquing the current system and exploring alternatives.

Through traditional handcrafting techniques and reuse practices, this project explores how value can be redefined beyond excess and disposability. Throughout this residency Future Archive will learn traditional hand crafting techniques; source recycled and reclaimed materials; and make industry connections to develop a new body of work that redefines value in fashion — away from excess and towards meaningful connection with cloth and clothes.

The Future Archive, items No. 1 - No. 15

Why Lottozero?

Lottozero Textile Lab is a cutting-edge creative space for textile innovation, located in Prato — one of the world’s most significant textile and fashion districts. Here, the past and future coexist: from centuries-old wool recycling traditions to advanced industrial techniques.

The lab brings together artisans, designers, and experimental makers from around the globe. It’s a rare space where conceptual art and functional fashion merge — where ideas are not only imagined but woven into reality.

This residency offers a rare opportunity to access specialist equipment, collaborate with Italy’s finest textile minds, and develop a deeply informed material practice at the heart of Europe’s sustainable textile movement.

Future Archive item No. 7 Tartan uniform skirt; Custom Big Squish bag with Archive No. 7 pockets

What You’re Funding

Your support will help bring Bonfire of the Vanities to life by covering key expenses for the residency, research, and sharing of this body of work through publication, exhibition and workshops. 

Residency and Materials

• One-month residency at Lottozero Textile Lab, including consultation with industry experts

• Access to the lab’s equipment and workspace for hands-on textile experimentation

• Materials needed for testing and developing the work

Travel and Accommodation

• Flights and travel to and within Italy, plus between Italy and France

• Accommodation during research stops outside the residency period

Documentation and Sharing

• Photographing, writing and compiling a publication outcome 

• Organizing exhibition, talks, and workshops to share the project upon return

Budget Breakdown

Item Cost (AUD)

Custom Pauffé bag with Archive No. 1 Pockets; Future Archive item No. 1 Khaki Overalls

Why We Need Your Help

At the moment, this residency and research trip is fully self-funded. Your support will help cover these significant costs and allow Future Archive create and present a meaningful body of work. It will also enable us to share what we learn through exhibition, talks, and workshops and to contribute to how we think about and value garments, handcrafting skills and materials. 

Custom Pauffé bag with Archive No. 1 pockets; Custom Tie-On Pocket single from deadstock materials

For any further information on reward items and to discuss available materials don't hesitate to reach out!