One of VISI’s favourite international fashion designers, Paul Smith, has found the new face of his Autumn/Winter 2011 and Spring/Summer 2012 collection.
The new brand ambassador, UK artist Charming Baker, has been – literally – blowing away the art world and we’re sure he’ll do the same to the fashion industry.
Charming is one of the fastest-rising stars of the UK art world, thanks in large part to his unconventional technique of shooting his art with a gun. Tipped for greatness by the likes of the BBC, the Daily Telegraph and GQ magazine, the off-the-wall artist came into contact with Paul Smith through a mutual friend.
“Charming is a good-looking, friendly, creative guy who we’ve known for some time and we love his artwork,” says Paul Smith. “He fits our clothes perfectly and so we thought this was a perfect association.”
We couldn’t agree more! The oddball artist, who “shot” (excuse the pun) to fame on his own accord is an exceptional pairing for the classic but quirky Paul Smith brand.
“Paul takes things beyond the ordinary,” says Charming. “I love that he is both passionate and unpretentious about the world he helps to shape.”
A charming tale of success
Charming is likewise recognised for veering away from pretention. He was discovered five years ago, working from the bedroom of a South London council flat.
When galleries approached him, he ignored their offers and chose to sell his art independently. “When I left college I was courted by the art establishment but at the time I felt like I didn’t fit in. Operating outside of that world has allowed me to develop into what I am now.”
After his discovery in South London, Charming was persuaded to hold a pop-up show which sold out on the opening night. Since then he has had successful shows in London, Los Angeles and New York.
Achieving all of this without gallery representation, the father of five will no doubt add his unique brand of risk-taking attitude to the tailored gentlemen’s suiting, shirting and formalwear that Paul Smith is so well known for.
More information: www.paulsmith.co.uk, http://charmingbaker.com
