Loewe designer Jonathan Anderson has firmly established himself as a tastemaker, launching photography prizes, and supporting the work of young photographers, as well as artists with the Loewe Craft Prize. So it’s no surprise that his latest capsule collection celebrates the work of another great creative talent — that of American artist, writer, filmmaker and activist David Wojnarowicz. And it’s all in support of the Visual AIDS Foundation and the P.P.O.W Gallery, which represents the artist’s estate.
If the name is unfamiliar, Wojnarowic’s work certainly won’t be. He often appeared in the work of, and showed alongside, stars of contemporary American art: Nan Goldin, Keith Haring and Jean-Michel Basquiat.
“Growing up I’ve always been aware of David Wojnarowicz work,” Anderson told ELLE. “When I first went to Montreal, I remember finding a book on him. There’s something about the emotion of the work [that] really means a lot to me and every time I look to his imagery it provokes something; it provokes a reaction.”
Which is why Loewe’s limited edition capsule collection of four T-shirts features the artist’s prints — they prompt reaction and bring attention to the illness that led to Wojnarowicz’s untimely death, aged just 37.
Amid the AIDS crisis of the 1980s, the rallying cry of activists at the time was “Silence = death.” It’s for this reason that Anderson is using his platform as the creative director of an internationally renowned brand to foster awareness of Wojnarowicz’s art and activism, honouring his work and memory.
The T-shirts, produced in a limited run of under 400 per design, are available now at LOEWE.com and the Visual AIDS website, as well as at Dover Street Market London and Tokyo. Priced at £75, proceeds from the sales will go to Visual AIDS and the P.P.O.W Gallery (where you can see Wojnarowicz’s work if you find yourself in the East Village anytime soon).
From: ELLE UK
