SPEAKING GARMENTS LAUNCH NEW CAPSULE COLLECTION WITH ARTIST JAN-OLE SCHIEMANN

Learning the inspiration behind a garment inevitably leads to a new-found appreciation for its design. Fashion has many influences, some carrying more cultural merit than others, but occasionally two independent ideas come together to create something in perfect harmony. Art and fashion often cross paths, but when their meeting is intentional the result is something truly special. In this case, the union comes in the form of a sophisticated take on casual-wear.

Following the success of their collaboration with sculptor Michail Pirgelis, German clothing brand Speaking Garments has teamed up with contemporary artist Jan-Ole Schiemann in a four-piece capsule collection set to capture the hearts of art and fashion enthusiasts alike. Occupying a palette of grays with hints of colour, Schiemann’s lines fluctuate between abstract and figurative. The print used for the range was inspired by the artist’s 2017 work, ‘Distractingly Sexy’. It carries a striking depth; created through the overlapping of layers of transparent black ink, topped with a paint-mist surface. While the effect is cartoon-like, the considered nature of the line-work makes for a tasteful and high-quality finish.

The layered technique was carried over into the design of the jacket. A layer of cotton is covered with a mesh fabric, each imprinted with the signature illustration but in contrasting colour ways. The inside lining of the monochrome sweater also carries the print: a feature only knowable to the wearer. The second half of the collection includes a hoodie with a ‘kangaroo flap’ detail concealing a section of print, and a t-shirt with cut-outs which reveal a final version of the artwork. The pieces are unisex, purposefully oversized and immediately wearable this autumn-winter.

Jan-Ole Schiemann, born in Kiel in 1983, studied at Düsseldorf Art Academy. He is now based in Cologne, but has exhibited his work in New York, Los Angeles and Seoul. Despite his international acclaim, it seems fitting for his debut fashion collaboration to take place so close to home. Schiemann was heavily involved in each step of the process – it was important to both parties that the project be a genuinely shared effort. Each item bought comes with a numbered and artist-signed certificate, so you know you’re getting more than your average clothing item.

All images courtesy of Speaking Garments and Jan-Ole Schiemann