Fashion and art have always been inseparable. For fashion designers, every garment is a piece of art created by them. The upcoming “NEW NOW” auction at Phillips London will showcase the perfect combination of fashion trends and art. British fashion designer Stella McCartney will present 12 artworks at the auction that embody the brand’s philosophy, showcasing the brand’s values of sustainability beyond the runway!
During the global pandemic, Stella McCartney did not stop. She invited 26 artists to create diverse interpretations of her core values through different media, resulting in 26 pieces of art in the “A to Z Manifesto” series. Stella herself will select 12 pieces from this series, which will be featured at the Phillips London “NEW NOW” auction on July 13th. Stella is an environmentalist in the fashion industry, and her brand has always advocated for protecting the environment while empowering women with confidence and strength.
This project takes inspiration from the 26 English letters, with each artist choosing a letter as their theme. The selected letters not only align with Stella’s values but also represent their own beliefs. Below, we have selected some works commissioned by Stella from artists to see how different artistic languages can interpret the core values of this top designer!
C is for Conscious (意識)
In the past, Chantal Joffe has been invited multiple times to create for the brand but has always declined, making this collaboration particularly meaningful. The artwork features Chantal’s nude self-portrait, with the “C” representing both her name and her conscious and observant approach to life. On the other hand, Conscious is also a key point of sustainable fashion, just as Stella is committed to consciously choosing design concepts that do not harm nature and animals.
L is for Linda
This photograph is from Stella’s mother Linda McCartney, and the picture is a self-portrait of them at their family farm in Scotland. Stella’s mother has had a profound influence on her, and many of her creative inspirations come from her mother’s taste and attitude towards life. After seeing Linda McCartney’s self-portrait, one can truly understand how Stella’s unique aesthetic concept is influenced by her mother.
G is for Grateful (感激)
This piece was completed by George Condo during his phone call with Stella. During the pandemic social distancing period, George spent most of his time considering how to represent the distance between people through his art. He chose to express “Grateful” because even though the pandemic has reduced many opportunities for interaction, as an artist, he can connect with people around the world through art and create portrait-themed paintings.
Z is for Zero Waste (零污染)
Stella and Joana Vasconcelos have a true connection in values, both highly valuing craftsmanship, tradition, health, and environmental protection. The piece named Z is for Zero Waste is made from leftover threads, using traditional techniques to give new life to surplus materials, creating art with zero pollution, fully embodying Stella’s commitment to environmental regeneration and sustainable development.
W is for Womanhood (女性之聲)
As a mother of four, Sam Taylor Johnson and Stella are old friends who have always admired each other. Sam has a strong spirit, able to maintain a stylish attitude towards life even in the face of adversity. For Stella, she is an elegant and strong woman. Stella’s promotion of sustainability in the fashion industry has also inspired Sam. The meeting of these two strong and kind souls has created this work full of love.
The proceeds from this auction will be donated to the charity organization designated by the artist, making each creation meaningful. When fashion, art, auctions, and charity come together, this cross-border collaboration is bound to attract attention from all walks of life. Fashion and art enthusiasts, don’t miss out!
Image Source: Phillips London
