To learn more about Max and his creations, Bored Panda once again reached out to Max’s mom, Sherri, who kindly answered our questions.
First of all, we wanted to know how Max’s talent and skills have improved over time.
Sherri wrote: “Max’s skills have grown exponentially since he was 4, both in sewing and design. He has sewn almost daily for over four years now, had many sewing lessons, and had a lot of trial and error with design. Though he has never had any formal fashion design lessons, the amount of hours he has spent on his craft definitely shows in the maturity of his work.”
Max has already worked with famous people such as Sharon Stone and also sells his dresses worldwide. Sherri shared what has been the most exciting moment in Max’s journey so far.
“The most surprising, exciting, and humbling moments are always hearing how Max and his designs touch people on a very personal level. The inspiration and joy he brings to the world is beautiful to watch. We often receive messages from fans who are going through difficult times and share with us that watching Max has helped get them through it with a little light. In the end, it’s why we keep sharing his work. Max is 8. He does not need to be famous. But showing him how his art can bring happiness to the world is a good, encouraging lesson for any artist,” wrote Max’s mom.
As for the hardest project or moment in Max’s fashion journey, Sherri shared how their family is helping him through it.
“For the first time this month, Max accepted a very last-minute invitation for a runway show. Typically, he has all the time in the world to prepare for shows and no pressure to make anything. When we told him about the offer, he had to make the decision - did he want to work on the show every day in order to be ready in time, or turn it down? He very much wanted to do the show. His grandmother and I are helping him sew some for this since he is in school. But it is really the first time he has to delegate work and focus every day on a project.”
Sherri also shared a time when someone’s reaction to Max’s designs really touched or inspired their family.
“We often receive notes from fans in hospitals who tell us how much Max’s videos and work get them through it. Max has a big heart. He always wants to make them something special and asks about them and how they are doing. Unfortunately, he isn’t able to fulfill this desire because he is still in school. But if he could, he would make all of them blankets, robes, and pajamas!” wrote Sherri.
Lastly, Sherri added: “Max is very focused now on sustainability. He became aware of the issue of fast fashion last year and seems to now be committed to bringing awareness around it. His next show is completely made of sustainable, reused materials. It will be interesting to watch as he grows, how he has an impact on changing the perception of reuse and overconsumption.”
