Xeno Xapiens by Long Truong

Truong’s signature project, named Xeno Xapiens explores about the queerness of our identity and how fashion redefines the notion of being human. Xeno Xapiens is a high fashion editorial which mirrors society’s prejudicial treatment towards the misfits. Influenced by James Cameron’s Aliens and Vincenzo Natali’s Splice, Xeno Xapiens is an escape route from our reality, taking the viewers directly into a sci-fi movie.

The narrative begins with the introduction of the three protagonists, the Scientist, and two Aliens. The story then unfolds to the examination scenes where the viewers can see the subtle unsettling atmosphere to which the Aliens are subjected. Avant-Garde garments from emerging Australian designers and layered adornments are utilised to highlight the unconventionality of the Aliens. The editorial showcases the outcasts’ vulnerability, but more importantly, their haunting beauty through dynamic silhouettes, vibrancy, and mimicry of nature.  

Hand-drawn anatomical illustrations reference Leonardo da Vinci’s studies of the human body are presented alongside the images to reveal further scientific information about the Aliens, depicting the Scientist’s point of view. Xeno Xapiens celebrates individuality and the impact of fashion on self-exploration.