Basquiat Estate Teams Up with Albino & Preto Fashion Label for a New Line of Clothes
In a fusion of art and martial arts, the fashion brand Albino & Preto has created a new collection in 2023, drawing inspiration from the legacy of the legendary artist Jean-Michel Basquiat. The collection, which drops ahead of New York Fashion Week on September 10, features motifs from Basquiat's paintings and elements related to Jiujitsu. The collaboration between Albino & Preto and the estate of Jean-Michel Basquiat grew out of the exhibition "King Pleasure," mounted by Basquiat's sisters in 2022. This exhibition, which showcased collaborations with various brands, including Who Decides War designers Ev Bravado and Tela D'Amore, provided the perfect platform for this unique partnership. Jean-Michel Basquiat, who cut his teeth in the New York art scene in the 1980s, continues to inspire and provoke, even decades after his untimely passing. His work, still fetching record sales, is a testament to his enduring impact. The collection is heavily influenced by Basquiat's paintings, with some of his artworks incorporated into the prints. One of the martial arts motifs in the collection is a reference to "Achilles," a specific jiujitsu foot lock that Basquiat often included in his work. The collection includes a variety of offerings, from gi and nogi jiujitsu sets to lifestyle apparel. A limited selection of pieces from the collection is available now on the fashion brand's website, with the full collection set to be released on September 10. Interestingly, Basquiat's former studio is currently inhabited by Angelina Jolie's Atelier Jolie, a workshop and exhibition space for under-represented tailors and artisans around the world. This connection between art, fashion, and social impact is a fitting tribute to Basquiat's legacy. It's worth noting that the estate of Jean-Michel Basquiat has previously collaborated with the clothing store H&M on a Basquiat-inspired clothing line. This latest collaboration with Albino & Preto further cements Basquiat's status as a style icon, transcending the boundaries of art and fashion. Despite his short career, Jean-Michel Basquiat's legacy continues to be a powerful force, inspiring new generations of artists and fashion designers alike. The Albino & Preto collection is a testament to this enduring influence, blending Basquiat's vibrant, iconic style with the discipline and grace of Jiujitsu.
