Issue link: https://read.dmtmag.com/i/566702
CULTURED 129 through the lens of fashion; to ignite the process of discovery in others. My vision is that this platform will be a resource for discovering emerging artists and designers from all over the world and that these pairings—be it the imagery or roundtable discussions between artists and designer—will offer a shift in perspective from our traditional ways of thinking. Social media and the Internet offer the opportunity for someone who has never been exposed to art to become intrigued and maybe then create something of their own. Do you ever have artists ask you to feature their work to help build their audience? Yes, I've been asked. And of course, I appreciate someone presenting me new work, but usually the process is more organic. I was really excited to see Raf Simons using Sterling Ruby's paintings as a pattern for his collection for Dior. It was like putting contemporary painting on another stage, what are your thoughts about this? I love the idea of fashion designers collaborating with artists, and I think this comes back to reimagining the context of art. It's a relevant idea that art is becoming more interactive, as technology advances and the cellphone is our portal in which we see and interact with the world. People crave a personable or more direct experience that they may then share, whether that is seeing our reflection in a work or wearing your new favorite artist's collection with Calvin Klein. I think that maybe as the imagery suggests, art begins only with the parameters one creates as opposed to fashion which inherently is made for the human form. I believe art is a more pure source of inspiration. That said, can art draw from fashion? Yes, of course! Of course there are logistical issues with making these photos a reality. Are any of these shoots guerilla-style? Are there galleries that won't allow you to photograph the work in this context? They used to all be guerilla-style, but not anymore. Most galleries will contact the artist directly for their blessing and there are some artists who aren't comfortable with this—which of course, I understand. As with anything, some galleries are more supportive than others, but the beautiful thing about artists is that in many cases they are open-minded toward someone whose motivations are pure. The intent is never to use the art as a backdrop; it is to bring forth elements of the art by adding a layer of interpretation and scale. Are there any tricks to making a successful account that most people just don't see or understand? And I'm not talking about the hashtags! Ha! Yes, I would never give advice on hashtags. My advice would be to become clear on what you want to project, what value are you bringing. Social media offers a beautiful opportunity to establish and put forth a certain aesthetic and/or to become a resource for something. Exist in a vacuum and think about what you would like to see that doesn't exist—and then experiment with creating it. Collaborate with others whom you admire that perhaps do have a social following or whose audience might have an appetite for your work. ''The intent is never to use the art as a backdrop; it is to bring forth elements of the art by adding a layer of interpretation and scale.'' —Pari Ehsan