“My work in fashion often draws inspiration from art,” says Rejina Pyo. “I wanted to share that in a more direct, deeper way – to celebrate some of the artists who have inspired me over the last 10 years.” The designer has always fostered a close connection to the art world and to celebrate the 10th anniversary of her eponymous brand, she has curated her first-ever exhibition. As She Is brings together 19 exceptional female artists whose selected works explore the themes of womanhood, love, loss, career, motherhood, guilt and self-acceptance.
Artwork by Eileen Cooper, Cece Philips, Antonia Showering and Cassi Namoda
Pyo, who has accrued a stellar fanbase that includes everyone from Katy Perry to Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex, is one of the leading names in the design world and collected the award for British Emerging Talent in womenswear at the 2019 Fashion Awards. After studying art at Hongkik University in South Korea, she completed an MA in Fashion Design at Central Saint Martins.
Artwork by Yoona Hur, Sis Cowie and Mia Chaplin
She has drawn on her background in art throughout her career. “I often look at art, historic and contemporary, in my research process because it evokes a particular feeling or experience that I then respond to,” she says. “So while you won’t find literal art references in the finished designs, it forms part of the conceptualisation and is continuously informing how I work as a designer.”
Artwork by Ángela de la Cruz and Chantal Joffe
The impressive roster of artists includes Ángela de la Cruz, Chantal Joffe, Nengi Omuku and Eileen Cooper. Each one was handpicked by Pyo. “I have been an admirer of many of the artists exhibiting for years and I have been fortunate to get to know them and their work on a more personal level. I have a profound respect for every artist included in this show, their creative practice and unique contribution to the unravelling and understanding of the female condition.
“Each artist, each work, brings something incredibly unique to the exhibition, drawn from different perspectives and experiences. I hope people can feel the authenticity of each work and be inspired by the energy created by bringing them together in one space.”
Artwork by Jane Yang-D’Haene, Nengi Omuku and Lyson Marchessault
‘As She Is’ will run until 2 November at Soho Revue Gallery.