Renowned artist Ron English has channeled his creativity into the fashion world, starting with the POPaganda 2014 lookbook.
Using a photorealist technique and comic book aesthetic, English has created a cast of disturbing characters within his work, including skeletal figures, hyper-sexualized animals and the well-known figures of 'MC Supersized' (a grotesque fast-food spokesperson) and 'Abraham Obama.'
His debut collection, comprised of t-shirts and headwear, is built around these signature characters. While fans of his art work will most definitely enjoy the apparel, those who are unfamiliar might need a chance to adjust to his surrealistic, borderline freakish style. English's work may be unorthodox and haunting, but, like most art, it is thought-provoking and worth a second look. The collection will be launching at Zumiez and related retailers within the coming weeks.
Hauntingly Grotesque Streetwear
The Popaganda 2014 Lookbook is Terrifyingly Cool
Trend Themes
1. Photorealistic Streetwear - The trend of using photorealist technique and comic book aesthetic in streetwear offers disruptive innovation opportunities for designers to create visually striking and attention-grabbing apparel.
2. Disturbing Character Fashion - The trend of incorporating disturbing characters in fashion opens up disruptive innovation opportunities for brands to explore unconventional and provocative designs that challenge traditional notions of beauty and aesthetics.
3. Artist Collaboration Fashion - The trend of collaborating with renowned artists in fashion provides disruptive innovation opportunities for brands to create unique and limited-edition collections that blend art and apparel.
Industry Implications
1. Fashion - The fashion industry can take advantage of the trend of photorealistic streetwear and disturbing character fashion to push the boundaries of design and create garments that make a bold and unforgettable statement.
2. Art - The art industry can explore the trend of artist collaboration fashion to bring art to a wider audience and create wearable art pieces that showcase the creativity and talent of artists.
3. Retail - The retail industry can tap into the trend of photorealistic streetwear and disturbing character fashion to offer customers unique and exclusive merchandise that stands out in a crowded market.