Lewis Beilharz Makes Powerful Statement at New York Fashion Week
New York-based artist and designer, Lewis Beilharz, made a powerful statement at the presentation of his latest collection “Delusions of Grandeur.” The designer showcased his support for Palestine, raising the nation’s flag and sending down the runway pieces that honored Palestinian culture.
A Show-Stopping Message
On September 4, Lewis Beilharz debuted his Spring Summer 2025 (SS25) collection at Runway 7. A premiere Fashion Week production company, Runway 7 hosts fashion shows at Sony Hall for both established and indie designers. Beilharz has displayed his work on Runway 7 in the past, but his most recent show gained attention for showing solidarity with Palestine.
On the runway, model Abdul Elmoujahid raised the Palestinian flag dressed in an oversized suit with the words “Palestine” painted onto the front. The suit belonged to Beilharz’s 2020 collection titled “Say My Name,” which featured pieces of wearable art with the words “Palestine deserves peace.” According to Beilharz, the suit was not intended to be in the show but was sent down the runway as a backup fit after another model canceled. Beilharz wrote on Instagram, the “message applies today more than ever.”
That wasn’t his only nod to Palestine. Model Ruben Demosthene walked the runway in a black, art-adorned jacket with the words “Free Palestine” on the back. Wrapped around his head was a black keffiyeh. Beilharz also gave his final bow as a designer dressed in a black trench coat and a keffiyeh draped over a black bucket hat.
The keffiyeh, a patterned scarf traditionally made of cotton, has become a symbol of Palestinian resistance and solidarity. The origins of the scarf can be traced back to West Asia in 3100 before the common era (BCE). The keffiyeh was used as a head covering for those who worked the land and was used to hide the faces of the Palestinians who rebelled during the 1936 Arab Revolt. Since then, people have worn the scarf as a statement of solidarity.
Lewis Beilharz’s SS25 collection showcased the ethereal and otherworldly beauty of his art-turned-fashion. A few of his pieces, including a padded jacket with dramatic sleeves, and a sheer gown were fashioned after one of his artwork, “Loyalty.” The collection also featured a two-piece resin fusion gown and sheer structural sets.
Beilharz Remains Resilient
Beilharz is no stranger to using his platform to uplift relevant causes, and now he’s using it to advocate for the citizens of Palestine. In an interview with Shoutout LA, Beilharz stated that he wants to “align who [he is] and [his] art with a moral compass.”
Beilharz is known for creating designs inspired by his own art pieces. His pieces have been showcased on the red carpets of events like the Grammy Awards and during New York and Paris Fashion Week. Beilharz’s creations have also been featured in renowned fashion publications.
The designer’s official ethos is rooted in art, sustainability and inclusion. In addition to apparel, Beilharz sells his original paintings on his Instagram account @beilharzpaintings.
Interested in more fashion content? Check out the celebrity arrivals at the Michael Kors SS25 show here.
