September 11, 2019
Designer Jean Paul Gaultier photographed by Peter Lindbergh. Image credit: We Are Family Foundation
French fashion designer Jean Paul Gaultier is set to be honored by the We Are Family Foundation for his efforts to challenge traditional notions of individuality and beauty through his work.
On Nov. 5, Mr. Gaultier will receive the Humanitarian Award from WAFF, a nonprofit organization that promotes cultural diversity and nurtures the positive work of proactive youth. The designer has garnered attention for taking on high-fashion notions of sizing, fur and other subjects through his eccentric aesthetic.
“Jean Paul Gaultier is someone who I'm happy to call a friend,” said Nile Rodgers, Grammy Award-winning musician and founder at WAFF, in a statement. “His incomparable work as an iconic fashion designer and forward thinker has changed our culture in a way the world has greatly benefitted from.”
Fashion statements
In addition to celebrating Mr. Gaultier, WAFF will also be awarding legendary signer and literary advocate Dolly Parton the Mattie J.T. Stepanek Peacemaker Award. WAFF has previously honored cultural heavyweights such as Quincy Jones, Tommy Hilfiger, Sir Elton John and LL Cool J.
Mr. Gaultier is known for his non-apologetic attitude about subjects he is passionate about.
The designer’s eponymous fashion label has joined many other major high-end fashion brands looking to put an end to the use of real fur. Despite previously using fur in his fashion, Mr. Gaultier made headlines for describing the way in which animals are killed as “deplorable” on French television (see story).
Jean Paul Gaultier tackles progressive subjects through fashion and humor. Image credit: Jean Paul Gaultier
Mr. Gaultier also previously collaborated with friend and singer Beth Ditto on a special-edition T-shirt. The Beth Ditto ♥ Jean Paul Gaultier tee marked the first time any piece designed by Mr. Gaultier besides bespoke orders would be made up to a size US 30.
Proceeds from the collaboration were donated to Girls Rock Camp Foundation, a charity that helps young girls develop life skills, creative expression and collaboration through music (see story).
“It is with great honor that I receive the 2019 Humanitarian Award,” Mr. Gaultier said in a statement. “I have always believed that all people are beautiful, no matter what their color, shape, size, creed or sexuality.
"It is the inner beauty of all people and what we do for others that contributes the most to our beautiful global family," he said.
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