Yamuna Forzani

Yamuna Forzani (*1993, England) is a multidisciplinary artist and queer activist currently living and working in the Netherlands. A graduate of the Textile & Fashion department at the Royal Academy of Art in The Hague, Forzani’s artistic practice seamlessly blends fashion, photography, dance, installation, and social design. Central to her work is the celebration of LGBTQI+ culture, with a focus on building inclusive, utopian spaces that honor and uplift her community. Her art is not only visually dynamic but also deeply rooted in activism, aiming to create platforms where queer expression can thrive.

Artistic Vision and Practice
Forzani’s creative output often revolves around the ballroom scene, where she is a member of the Kiki House of Angels in Rotterdam and an international member of New York’s iconic House of Comme des Garçons. Her work celebrates the vibrancy and diversity of this culture through textile art, public performances, and large-scale installations. Known for her use of industrial knitting techniques, such as 3D and jacquard knitting, she transforms textiles into couture garments and bold tapestries that serve as the backdrop for her events. These creations embody her vision of a queer utopia, where art and activism unite.

Her textile work is the core of her artistic practice, developed in collaboration with Tilburg’s Textile Museum. The use of knitted textiles allows her to weave narratives of community, identity, and belonging, while also experimenting with new forms of social engagement. Through her work, Forzani builds physical and metaphorical spaces where the queer community can come together, be seen, and celebrated.

Notable Projects and Events
One of Forzani’s most prominent projects is the Utopia Ball x Fashion Show, which she organizes annually. This event brings together elements of fashion, ballroom culture, and social design, creating a shared platform that merges artistic expression with community activism. Her commitment to social change through art was recognized in 2022 when she won the Dutch Design Award for Fashion.

In her recent project for Rotterdam Pride, Forzani created a large-scale artwork titled Embrace Change, which was displayed on the Coolsingel. This colorful, vibrant piece not only celebrated queer culture but also invited reflection on the need for ongoing social progress. Forzani's ability to blend personal experience with broader cultural commentary has made her a standout voice in both the art and activist communities.

Education

• Royal Academy of Art, The Hague – Textile & Fashion Department

Collections

• TextielMuseum, Tilburg
• Stedelijk Museum, Amsterdam
• Stedelijk Museum, Schiedam
• Frans Hals Museum, Haarlem

On Now

• Museum Jan, Amstelveen
• Design Museum Den Bosch | Sept - Feb