Student Carter Mills has been awarded the Davide Renne Scholarship. Elena Botero Gómez interviews him following this significant day for the faculty and Davide Renne’s family and friends.
The ceremony marked the second anniversary of the designer’s passing and the debut of a scholarship that honors his deep appreciation for creativity and his commitment to advancing fashion education
How was the application process and what was your reaction when you heard you had been awarded the Davide Renne Scholarship?
The application process required each of us to submit a personal quote that represented our values, as well as maintain an academic average above a certain threshold. After that, it was simply a matter of waiting until the end of summer for the results. When I learned that I had been awarded the Davide Renne Scholarship, I was genuinely honored. It felt both unexpected and deeply meaningful, especially given the significance of carrying the name of someone so respected within Polimoda’s community.
Is Renne’s philosophy of craft and careful consideration something you intend to apply in your work?
Absolutely. I place great importance on attention to detail and the quality of execution. For me, these values are fundamental to creating work that feels considered and sincere. I don’t see this changing in the future; if anything, I hope to deepen this approach as I grow.
The scholarship aims to carry Renne’s legacy. How do you interpret that legacy?
To me, carrying Davide Renne’s legacy means approaching my work with integrity, dedication, and respect for those who have walked these same paths before us. I hope to do justice to him and to his family, even in a small way. Remembering and honoring those who shaped this industry and this school feels important and it motivates me to move forward with both humility and responsibility.
What has been your biggest lesson during this process?
Meeting Davide’s family made me realize how every person, whether a designer or a student, carries with them the love and presence of the people around them. Their energy continues through us in ways we don’t always notice. It reminded me that we are never entirely alone in what we do; we are, in many ways, reflections of the people who support us. That awareness has been one of the most meaningful lessons of this experience.
How has this scholarship impacted your creativity and your confidence as a fashion creative?
This scholarship has given me a renewed sense of purpose. It is easy to forget why we do what we do, especially in a field that demands constant reinvention. Now I feel that, even if only in an infinitesimal way, I carry someone else’s legacy with me. That responsibility pushes me to work with more intention and to trust my creative instincts more than ever.
Is there anything you are currently working on that carries the legacy of Davide Renne? Could you share what it is?
I think it’s still a bit early for me to share that. It is a delicate and personal process, and I prefer to treasure it privately for a little longer before presenting it publicly. What I can say is that I am truly excited about what lies ahead.
As the recipient of the Davide Renne Scholarship, what advice would you give to emerging designers still searching for their voice?
I’m not sure I’m in any position to give definitive advice, but I believe that creativity is constantly evolving, and that’s the beauty of it. I try not to get stuck in my own steps and to keep learning, no matter what stage I’m in. Finding your voice is less about discovering a final, fixed identity and more about embracing the ongoing search. If you stay curious and open, the voice will come naturally.
CREDITS
Special thanks to Davide Renne’s family
Written by:
- Elena Botero Gómez, Undergraduate in Fashion Styling student
Cover image:
- Carter Mills and Michelle Renne. Photo by Riccardo Bartalucci.
