Creative Collaborations to Transform HIV Awareness

On its 8^th year, Project Headshot Clinic, in partnership with UNAIDS and SHIP Foundation, launched its 2015 campaign entitled, “Transform”.

Through the use of social media and various forms of artistry, Project Headshot Clinic has successfully called the attention on the rapidly escalating battle against HIV. It has since become an annual project of Niccolo Cosme, founder of Project Headshot Clinic, to partner with UNAIDS, the joint United Nations Programme on HIV and AIDS, to focus strongly on information dissemination about the epidemic. This year highlights the importance of collaboration and commitment among individuals to transform our society and create lasting partnership against this issue.

The launch was held at Pineapple Lab with an entirely new multimedia experience. Displayed headshots of prominent personalities were brought to life by a mobile augmented reality app called, “Ismartphoto”. The photos transformed into a video with the use of the app, sending important messages of hope, urgency, and concern among others to incite a transformative discussion on addressing the challenges of HIV.

One of the main highlights focused on a collaborative show of dance and fashion. Select designers shared their expertise and vision to create pieces exclusively for the event. Opening the show was Nat Manilag with fiery-red eveningwear of feminine silhouettes in contrasting fabrics. John Herrera showcased subtle sexiness in gothic fashion with black textured coats. Norman San Diego presented white urban wear with neoprene printed with headshots of this year’s campaign. Albert Andrada chose a nude and black look with sheer fabrics and lace with accentuating cuts for the ladies, and printed details on natural fabrics under black suits for men. The finale collection with Francis Libiran highlighted geometric appliqués and floral on sheer fabric, all in the 2016 pantone color, serenity.

HIV epidemic in the Philippines has now seen a rapid increase in cases. Although the government’s support has been crucial in this fight, it is the actions of the society that are also needed to transform the perception and behavior towards this growing concern. Through all forms of media and the attention of every individual, Project Headshot Clinic can create more successful campaigns in dealing with HIV.