The Eden Hore Central Otago (EHCO) project team, which nurtures and promotes the renowned Eden Hore collection of New Zealand couture, believe that the intriguing story of Eden Hore and his passion for fashion, which led to his collection of more than 275 haute couture dresses from the 70s and 80s, is perfect for a feature film or documentary.
“This was a man who loved New Zealand-designed fashion clothes,” said Paula Penno, community engagement manager.
“And this is an opportunity to further explore his clothing and fashion collection in film. Each piece has a story and personality, about a time, a place and an era in New Zealand and world fashion, in the types of fabrics used, the cut and the style.”
His story was not just about an enigmatic man and his amazing dresses, but about the relationship of both with the landscape he loved all his life and where he worked near Naseby.
The public has glimpsed this visual synergy in the Eden Hore photography exhibition that toured Central Otago in the summer of 2021-22, from the time the clothes were modeled and incorporated into beautiful landscapes of Central Otago.
A selection of the dresses was also the subject of an ‘Eden Hore: High Country/High Fashion’ exhibition at the Dowse Art Museum in Lower Hutt earlier this year.
Filmmakers will be able to draw on the ever-growing library of images and oral histories about Eden. Resources available include archival footage and photos, clothing and designer information, information on recent projects and footage, and on-site assistance, including local knowledge.
In addition, the project team will encourage the creation of a high-end product for New Zealand and international distribution that will attract further funding and qualify for prestigious awards and film festivals.
“With this project, we want to provide inspiration for creativity in the fashion and design industry. We want to celebrate the courage to be bold and stimulate a sense of curiosity about visiting Central Otago, home to one of the most unique clothing collections of all time.”
– Staff reporter