Following the announcement of artist Benjamin Shine’s representation by Katherine Maginnis in September 2016, we are excited to share his collaboration with globally-recognised fashion designer John Galliano, for Maison Margiela’s Spring/Summer 2017 ‘Artisanal’ collection – debuted during Paris Fashion Week, January 2017.
Harnessing the synergy of fashion and contemporary art, this collaboration between Benjamin Shine and Maison Margiela Creative Director John Galliano marks the first of many innovative conceptual brand commissions that Katherine Maginnis looks forward to orchestrating and managing on behalf of the London and Sydney-based tulle artist.
In addition to the 65 million online views Benjamin’s previous work has already amassed, his elegant black tulle face – hand-made using Benjamin’s unique methods, and brought to life as part of a striking Galliano-designed white coat ensemble – has received global acclaim from publications in the arts, culture, fashion and finance worlds.
Showcasing Benjamin’s tulle face as a highlight of the runway show, Forbes said, “Only seconds from the time it was sent down the runways, photographs of it flooded news feeds and ignited conversation. Some thought it was sheer brilliance (pun intended).”
Meanwhile, veteran fashion critic and journalist Suzy Menkes, writing about the runway show for Vogue, said, “Perhaps the most beautiful piece was a tall South American-style felt hat above an all-white coat that was swathed in sheer black chiffon decorated with a face. This seemed like couture as theatre, but also as absolute elegance.”
Dedicating an article solely to Benjamin’s contribution to the Maison Marginal collection, Designboom describes the collaborative fashion piece, “An all-white trench coat, the dark mesh material seemingly escapes from the garment, wrapping around the model’s silhouette to reveal an intricately-crafted female face. In the making of the figure, Shine worked closely with Galliano over several months, eventually sculpting the figure over the course of more than 300 hours.”
In an interview with Another Magazine – which describes itself as a destination for the collision of fashion and culture – Benjamin explains his relationship with fashion industry stalwart Galliano. “I learned that John had seen my work some time ago, and his design team got in touch with the invitation to collaborate on the Artisanal collection. John presented me with beautiful concept of my tulle work floating on a white coat and it quickly progressed from there.”
