🌿 Spotlight: Daniela Raytchev—The Artist Behind the Threads 🌿

This article appeared in our November 2024 newsletter. Subscribe for more content like this.

This month, I want to highlight my dear friend and muse, Daniela Raytchev. As a model for SET ME FREE, she brings our pieces to life with her unique charm. Daniela is not just a model but also an amazing artist and advocate for sustainability.

In our upcoming interview, she shares her thoughts on creativity, sustainability, and the intersection of art and fashion.

What inspires your artistic journey?

The core inspiration comes from my own experiences. We don’t know what we don’t know and can only see things we are aware of. It’s good to push ourselves even a baby step further and be open-minded, especially when we listen to others and observe life around us. 

I read somewhere years ago that music is the most universal language, and art is second. I can’t sing so painting it was. I like to use my practice to educate and create conversations around subjects people don’t feel comfortable discussing…from mental health, abuse or discrimination, as well as opening up conversations to show reality. That’s where my artwork around sustainability and climate change comes to the forefront. I encourage honesty and a positive take on things.

How do art and fashion blend to express sustainability?

Both can actively take part in creating and: or supporting sustainable ecosystems, for example, either via using recycled, sustainable or locally sourced materials, cycling or via new technology. 

You can also conceptually capture and talk about sustainability-  incorporate the message within the artwork or the design. 

There are no rules. And every little counts. It’s easy to get overwhelmed with perfection but better to do a baby step, than no step at all, towards more efficient  future that preserves our resources. 

Why do you connect with SET ME FREE’s mission?

I have always supported sustainable fashion. in the past, I used to be drawn to ethical sustainability and supporting local businesses more than sourcing sustainable materials. My graduate collection, for example, included local bobbin lace from Slovakia that was preserved and upcycled into my designs. I love Set Me Free designs - they are comfortable and cheerful. It’s very consciously made and I know the founder, Triin, carefully considers all the aspects of the production. Set Me Free is definitely made with a lot of love and care, for our environment and also for anyone who will wear the brand. 

I also believe we need to decrease our consumption, especially when it comes to fast fashion, and Set Me Free pieces are of great quality and they last, which I really appreciate. 

Can you share a favourite project you’ve worked on recently?

I loved my collaboration with Darwin 200, it’s a research centre that collects research on ocean plastic. I created recycled Barbie from the ocean plastic they sent me and I look forward to exhibiting it, hopefully next year. 

What advice would you give to someone seeking to live more creatively?

Don’t be afraid, and always push yourself to be a little uncomfortable. 

Follow Daniela's artist journey here.