The mask exhibition at Dorćol Platz – PokrivaLice showcases the results of a spontaneous civic solidarity initiative led by self-organized textile and fashion creators. The project was initiated by designers from the BFW Design Collective, who, in addition to their members, gathered many other designers, seamstresses, women skilled in sewing, material donors, and volunteers who wanted to help in various ways.
The initiative took place in March and April, inspired by the emergence of the coronavirus, which at one point caused a shortage of protective masks. The growing awareness of the importance of face coverings, which provide the first barrier against contaminated air and protect people around us, continues to send a strong nonverbal message about taking care of oneself and others. Expressing solidarity in the new situation, special Facebook and Instagram pages for PokrivaLice were created, significantly contributing to the project’s success. The campaign quickly spread through social media across different parts of Serbia and reached a wide scale, demonstrating that help could be provided to many people. Over 20,000 masks were sewn and distributed throughout Serbia to hospitals, health centers, and those in urgent need.
The goal of the initiative was the voluntary and non-profit creation of face coverings to raise awareness of the importance of social distancing and personal hygiene. Thanks to the dedication of around twenty designers, the project produced beautiful, creative, and unique masks that will be part of the exhibition at Dorćol Platz from October 27–30.