Hedi Slimane’s collaborative spirit might not always be the aspect fashion journalists choose to emphasize first when describing his work, perhaps because of his tenacity as a designer, and how he sticks to his vision season after season.
If that seems to irritate some, one has to admit that Slimane definitely has his own taste and a very clear point of view, but he also likes to involve others into his creative process. He has done it with musicians several times in the past, but artists are on his radar, too, and his choices can be surprising.
That is the case with his Spring Summer menswear 2020 collection where various artists collaborated with Celine on exclusive pieces, an interesting marriage of creativity and commerce. German painter André Butzer is one of the lucky few and his work oscillates between joyful chaos and social alienation. We caught up with the cheeky painter who likes to refer to his art as “my stuff”.
Were you surprised when Celine contacted you ?
I was a little bit surprised. All I wear myself as clothes is worn out stuff previously owned by more or less dead relatives.
How did the collaboration unfold from the very first contact to the finished products ?
It was a magical thing. I can’t complain. They made it right.
Was it the first time you had worked with a high-end fashion brand ? Which part did you enjoy the most ?
As I had no idea what a high end fashion brand is, I would say seeing them realize their products was more than enjoyable and rewarding.
Were there specific products you were attracted to and wanted to put your stamp on ?
No, I am very shy and I would have never tried to influence anyone or anything.
Your work comes across as bright and theatrical, but there's also a feeling of fear. Could you convey the same ambivalence on your Celine pieces ?
I have no idea what my art is about. In fact, it seems to be about nothing. So, yes, it worked out !
What's your vision of the fashion industry as an outsider ?
They will take over the whole planet and put people into clothes. Finally.
Did you enjoy working with Hedi Slimane and would you do it again ?
Anytime. I was meant to confirm, say hello and embrace ! I have no idea though whether they would risk one more time having my stuff on their products. Clients have a taste, too !
