Kering Announces First “Kering CRAFT” Fellows

On March 30, the luxury group Kering announced the first cohort of 10 fellows for its newly launched program, “Kering CRAFT (Creative Residency for Artisanship, Fashion and Technology),” developed in partnership with Shanghai Fashion Week. The initiative aims to provide an international development platform for the next generation of Chinese designers, centered on the intersection of craftsmanship, fashion, and technology.

Since applications opened in December 2025, the program received over 100 submissions. In March 2026, a selection process was conducted by Kering, Shanghai Fashion Week, and an advisory board composed of leading international experts. Evaluation criteria included creativity and originality, craftsmanship and product excellence, growth potential, and the ability to embody the future of luxury.

Focusing on a New Generation of Chinese Creativity

CAI Jinqing, President of Kering Greater China, commented: “We are grateful to the Kering CRAFT Advisory Board and Shanghai Fashion Week for their invaluable support in selecting this inaugural cohort of ten exceptional fellows. Their creative passion, distinct perspectives, outstanding abilities and exceptional potential embody China’s new generation of creators. We look forward to meaningful learning and cultural exchange during their residency, and to further strengthening the richness and diversity of the CRAFT creative community together.”

The selected fellows primarily work across fashion and jewelry design, each with a clearly defined creative identity. While rooted in Chinese culture and philosophy, their work reinterprets these influences through a global lens, reflecting a balance between local sensibility and international perspective.

An International Program Across Milan, Paris, and Shanghai

The program will take place across Milan, Paris, and Shanghai, offering a combination of hands-on learning, expert mentorship, and cultural exchange. Through this structure, participants are expected to develop both creatively and commercially.

Demna, Artistic Director of Gucci and a member of the Kering CRAFT Advisory Board, stated: “The creativity, innovation, and technical know-how in China are something I have always been fascinated by. I am excited to support the next generation of Chinese creatives and see how they will help shape the future of fashion.”

The fellows will begin the program in May 2026, with Italy as their first destination in Europe. Upon completing all modules, they are expected to present their final creative projects during Shanghai Fashion Week 2027.