Miami designer Drakhan Blackhart pushes the runway fashion boundaries with daring, provocative designs. As bold as he came across, he made sure his models wore only tape swimsuits, which he called the Black Tape Project. Instead of heavy jewelry and dramatic fabrics, his catwalks sport a temperature-raising swimsuit, turning what could be mere swimwear into striking body art.
The designs are executed exclusively with medical-grade tape, which covers the genital area but allows for many additional strips. Blackhart often drapes live on the catwalk, highlighting the models’ curves and heralding their forms. This drew a lot of attention, and the designer argues that his models are considered “living, breathing pieces of art” rather than objects of desire.
Despite the controversies, several models claimed to have had a liberating and empowering experience with Blackhart on the ramp. They feel glad to show off their bodies without being judged. Joel Alvarez is what Blackhart was previously known as, and he describes himself as one of the originators of this body art, strategically positioning tape on the body to accentuate its beauty and personality.
According to Blackhart’s website, he has worked with big luminaries in the entertainment business-from directors such as Michael Bay to artists like Rick Ross. With a rich history of performances at major festivals like EDC Vegas and Ultra Miami, he boasts an air of confidence even in the most renowned nightclubs in Miami and Ibiza.
Blackhart’s story is one of perseverance and ingenuity. First-generation Cuban American, he faced many obstacles, including homelessness. Coming upon some well-hidden cash that had been his grandfather’s proved the turnaround he needed, which allowed him to buy a camera and finally start making art.
Serendipity played a great part in his entry into the world of taping art; during one shoot, a model requested tape, which nudged him further into exploring this innovative medium. Throughout the years, he developed his techniques in various local clubs, later becoming his trademark for a unique design. Today, Blackheart is a self-taught photographer, artist, and entrepreneur, having managed to build a business of his creative vision.
