The intertwining paths of A.P.C. and JW Anderson have spawned a collection resonating with artistic flair and practical wear, a blend as harmonious as it is innovative. Drawing inspiration from Joseph Beuys’s iconic performance, “I Like America and America Likes Me,” the collection embodies a spirit of rebellion, ingenuity, and intimate connection with cultural roots.
The subtle echo of Beuys’s felt blanket is reflected in the meticulously crafted wool of the duffle coat, offering a soft homage without direct imitation. Addresses and imagery symbolic to Beuys’s journey find their expression on vibrantly colored T-shirts and interiors of select pieces, narrating a tale of art, protest, and transformation.
“The whole essence of this collaboration was rooted in discovery and the thrill of combining creative forces,” Jonathan Anderson reflects. Amidst the merger of iconic design elements, there is a palpable sense of learning, growth, and evolution, steering clear of reinvention but rather, offering glorification to the innate beauty and sophistication of existing artistry.
A.P.C.’s iconic simplicity merges seamlessly with JW Anderson’s inventive touch, giving birth to two distinct silhouettes that cater to varied aesthetic preferences. The dark allure of black denim, complemented by the rebellious charm of a biker jacket and hand-painted cotton knit, invites the rocker spirit. In contrast, the hippie essence is captured through looser shapes, multicolored knitwear, and the innovative introduction of laser-created, chemically untouched, torn and stonewashed denim.
A testament to this creative harmony, Jean Touitou recounts, “Our creative sessions with Jonathan were akin to a swift, productive exchange of ideas, where each concept quickly morphed into something even grander.” The collection, he reveals, is akin to a “limitless hyperlink” – a fluid, unrestricted dialogue translating into clothing, accessories, and imagery.
Capturing the essence of this collection, British actor Kit Connor dons these versatile pieces in the lookbook, photographed by Drew Vickers near the A.P.C. headquarters. Each photograph is a vivid portrayal of the A.P.C. X JW Anderson Interaction #20 – a tribute to the effortless blend of classic and contemporary, the meeting point of tradition and innovation.
© Photographed by Drew Vickers
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