Fashion L'amour

Art & Fashion | Ieva Li | Feature |

By Mooka Srisusuyotin.

What is the influence of art in fashion? Plus vice versa. Most of the clothes we wear are plain, have words [slogans are in], or they have some sort of arty colourful pattern. Ieva Li is an artist who combines her love for art and love for fashion very well. We spoke with her to find out more about how she combines her love and talent for the two.

1.Tell us about your infusion of art and fashion

I don’t put myself in a box. I see my life and body as a canvas and fashion just naturally becoming a part of my art. I paint on canvas, I paint on myself, I paint on my clothes, everything is related. 

2. Which would you prefer, art or fashion? If you had to choose.

Painting has always been the most challenging thing for me, fashion already has shape, function and movement, it changes with the one who is wearing it. I find painting the most pure form of self expression. It’s like a never ending monologue with myself, which is tiring and freeing in many ways. I truly can’t compare anything else to painting.

3. Do you find London is appreciative and accommodating of your skills?

London is very challenging and that’s what I love about big cities! Struggle and rejection makes me think harder and act quicker. In general, as an artist I don’t think it should be easy to fit in. If your art is genuine to you, people shouldn’t be familiar with it and it takes time as well as hardwork to be truly appreciated.

I feel London is a place where you can feel safe to express yourself and be who you want to be. I came here with no connections, no experience, but I instantly felt at home. The city gives me new energy and never fails to fuel my inspiration.

4. What has been the highs and lows of your craft thus far?

Being creative is a rollercoaster. Nobody has the answers. Every time I feel accomplished in my work, I am looking at new ways to elevate my art. It’s a never ending journey.

5. Tell us something interesting about art & fashion

The most exciting project that I’m working on right now is my own body prints. I cover myself in paint and print my body on canvas, paper, even leather jackets. The energy of the process is incredible, I have never felt more free and connected with myself when doing it. Every print interests me with a different energy. I am definitely very intrigued by this connection of energy and shape. 

6. What inspires your art? 

I love living a fast paced life and big city like London is a perfect source of inspiration. Anything that challenges my mind is an inspiration. 

7. What’s your personal fashion style like? Any favourite pieces?

Believe it or not, I have a minimalistic closet with a hand full of statement pieces of my own designs. I’m not too serious when it comes to my personal style. My favourite piece would be a painted shirt that I made which says  “Fake But Bougie” on the back. I love it because it’s classy and a fuck you to luxury fashion brands. 

8. If you were to let one designer dress you everyday, would would it be?

Myself! Ironically I don’t follow other designers. I love meeting creative people who inspire my style, but wearing my own creations feels most natural to me.

9. What’s next for Ieva?

I’m happy that more brands that I am a fan of are noticing my work. I am working on a couple of exciting projects with Ragyard. Together with painting on vintage, we are also working on print developments for their upcoming collection. This brand has been my favorite ever since I moved to London, so it feels surreal to now be working with them.

When it comes to visual art, new exhibitions are definitely coming and maybe even performances, I may even share this unreal body printing experience with the public.

Follow Ieva HERE

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