TEKIN An Icelandic Fashion Tale
Where Bold Fashion Meets Iceland’s Raw Beauty
First and foremost, TEKIN: An Icelandic Tale celebrates contrasts. Iceland’s rugged landscape, filled with icy plains and volcanic cliffs, becomes the perfect canvas. The editorial depicts an imagined odyssey, starting with the aftermath of a plane crash and unraveling across volcanic rock, weather-beaten wood buildings, and desolate open plains. Along the way, wild seas crash against cliffs, horses roam freely, and vibrant yellow flower fields appear like oases in the rugged terrain. Breathtaking waterfalls cascade through the imagery, adding a sense of grandeur. Each frame immerses us in Iceland’s raw beauty, blending these natural elements with bold, avant-garde fashion. However, the fashion stands out in vibrant, primary hues, creating a striking juxtaposition.
Furthermore, Kezi Ban’s photography enhances this bold visual narrative. Red dresses, electric blues, and vivid yellows clash magnificently with Iceland’s muted, gray and green palette. Meanwhile, avant-garde silhouettes echo the graphic shapes of the landscape. Designers like Lie Sangbong bring architectural flair that aligns perfectly with the country’s stark terrains. Additionally, the garments highlight edgy designs, structured shapes, and unconventional details. As a result, each piece transforms the wild Icelandic environment into a bold, futuristic runway.
Vibrant Styling That Moves With the Elements
Not only do the garments contrast with the environment, but they also reflect the energy of Iceland’s unpredictable weather. For instance, flowing fabrics from Monique Huillier interact dynamically with the wind. Meanwhile, Mugler adds a grounding element to the fluidity. Moreover, Samantha Angelo brings life to the styling, delivering poses that feel both powerful and elegant. Her movements emphasize the bold shapes and colors.
Icelandic Fashion, Redefined
Ultimately, TEKIN: An Icelandic Tale tells a story that redefines Icelandic fashion. Through its use of primary colors, bold shapes, and striking contrasts, the editorial crafts a fresh narrative. Each garment, whether from Flagpole or Reem Acra, becomes a statement of fearless creativity.
In addition, Kezi Ban’s direction captures Iceland’s duality—untamed beauty and modern sophistication. While the landscape feels timeless, the avant-garde styling pushes boundaries. This balance ensures the editorial resonates with both art and fashion audiences. Lastly, TEKIN serves as a testament to collaboration. By combining global designers with Iceland’s natural wonders, the editorial creates something truly unforgettable.
Photographer/Editor/Director Kezi Ban
Model/Creative Director Samantha Angelo
Hair and Make Up Sarah O’Brien
Producer Guorun Danielsdottir
Colorful bold suit Moon Lee
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Thomas is the author of the books The Business of Fine Art Photography, Routledge, New York, and The Fashion Image for Bloomsbury Publishing, London, with an upcoming book co-authored with Microsoft BING and AI team leader Derrick Connell due out in early 2026. He is also an Editor at Large for IRKmagazine, Board Member for the Santa Fe Council CENTER for Photographic Art, and past Photography Program Director at Parsons School of Design in New York. He is the former owner of Thomas Werner Gallery in Manhattan’s Chelsea Art District, and a former National Board member and New York Chapter President for the American Society of Media Photographers. As well as a former Advisory Board Member for Ithaca College’s Executive Education Program, contributor to Adobe’s Lightroom Academy, and a photography consultant for COACH, among others.
Werner led a team developing a media and literacy website for the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations/UNESCO and was a recurring instructor for the United Nations Education First Summer School. From 2005 – 2019 he worked with the United States Department of State on cultural projects in Russia partnering with 32 cultural, educational, and governmental organizations to develop projects in 29 cities. As an exhibiting artist Thomas was represented by galleries in New York and Los Angeles, and his work reviewed in The New Yorker Magazine.
Currently a creative consultant, Thomas works one on one with students, creatives, businesses, cultural institutions, and not for profits, helping them with career development, team management, innovation, education, professional practices, and the development of effective communication across multiple media platforms.
For fourteen years his research was Russia centric spending an average of 30 days a year in the country. The focus was the introduction of contemporary education methodologies, and the development of creative cultures within the country. Russian partners have included; The State Hermitage Museum, the National Center of Contemporary Art, Perm Regional Government, The Moscow Biennale for Young Art, National Centre of Photography for the Russian Federation, The Central State Archive of Film, Photographic and Phonographic Documents, The Moscow Biennale, The Pro Arte Foundation, and others. He has curated exhibitions in the United States and abroad, including seven co-curated exhibitions at the State Hermitage Museum in Saint Petersburg, Russia. His private collection of Russian photographs and artifacts have been exhibited internationally.
Thomaswernerprojects.com @Thomaswernerprojects IG
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