When we initially developed the Silk Imp Special Edition in 2023, we wanted to bring something new to the Austin Austin brand ecology, something that brought a touch of levity and eccentricity.
We immediately knew that artist Christian Newby would be able to deliver. His body of work doesn't commit to one medium, he works across fabrics, carpet, screen printed photographs, pottery, watercolour and beyond. We were inspired by some of Newby's silk scarf designs - a playful take on a classic Hermès silk scarf.
"The architecture of an Hermès silk scarf design is an interesting thing to explore and play with." - Newby
Newby Original Scarf design:
From there, Newby developed our Silk Imps. A collection of characters who are intentionally ornamental and over the top.
Newby artfully layers references from the ancient world, theatre and the Commedia dell'Arte to create these playful drawings which carry the temptation of narrative potential.
"I see these characters as possessing a narrative charge, something subjectively speculative, not something that is written by me. Creating a suggestive scenario that the viewer interprets…" - Newby
"The drawings are intriguing, lighthearted and fabulously melancholic." - Austin Austin
Special Edition Palmarosa & Vetiver Hand Soap
Special Edition Palmarosa & Vetiver Hand Cream
