I love it when something that has the potential to be deeply tragic in fact ends up as an absolute success story, and this tale of a sartorial win certainly takes the (dog) biscuit. A collaboration born of the digital age, a phenomenon made possible by the viral nature of Instagram united Brazilian artist Rafael Mantesso with Jimmy Choo creative director Sandra Choi.
“All of a sudden, I had friends from all over the world forwarding me links to Rafael’s enchanting work featuring his loveable English bull terrier, Jimmy Choo. I was instantly charmed by the way he animated his captivating dog into his artwork. I had never seen anything like it! His work is so playful, clever and witty, and we struck up an immediate friendship online. I just knew that I had to incorporate his work into a collection.” Sandra Choi, Creative Director.
Finding himself alone in an empty flat following a divorce, artist Mantesso filled the blank space in his home with whimsical illustrations. His beloved English bull terrier, named Jimmy Choo, cleverly positioned himself within the sketches and an artistic partnership was born. Transforming personal misfortune into hilarity, Mantesso created more illustrated scenarios for his dog Jimmy, photographing him in witty and tender poses simulating all manner of unusual activities – ranging from police line-ups to fashion parades and karaoke competitions.
The whimsical drawings starring Mantesso’s beloved bull terrier attracted the world’s attention, and the images were broadcast across global media, turning the artist, and his dog, Jimmy Choo into a sensation. Jimmy Choo’s Creative Director, Sandra Choi was so enchanted by the charming drawings that she approached the artist directly, commissioning him to create a series of fun, tongue-in-cheek illustrations to decorate a selection of Jimmy Choo accessories.
The collaboration manifests in a limited edition collection launching from the 15th May as part of Pre-Fall ‘15 comprising tote bags, cosmetic and handbag pouches, purses and iPhone cases. All products will feature a series of three exclusive sketches portraying Rafael’s bull terrier set against his signature line drawings: dreaming of shoes, relaxing on a sofa with a martini by his side or turning canine DJ on the decks. Set against a matt white background, the illustrations are humorous and eye-catching juxtaposed with bright pops of iridescent colour in hot pink, copper and electric blue. To celebrate the canine star of Rafael’s illustrations, the collection will also premier two styles of dog collars ensuring dog and owner are equally well accessorised.
www.jimmychoo.com
Love Laurel x
