H&M has announced a new clothing line in collaboration with the estate of the late artist Jean-Michel Basquiat and the emerging fashion label Who Decides War. This exciting partnership aims to bring Basquiat’s artistic legacy to the fashion world, offering a fresh perspective on his work.
The collaboration was inspired by the 2022 exhibition “King Pleasure,” organised by Basquiat’s sisters. The exhibition showcased rarely-seen paintings, drawings, and related ephemera and featured collaborations with various brands, including Who Decides War. Designers Ev Bravado and Téla D’Amore of Who Decides War were mainly involved in this unique venture.
While Basquiat is often associated with iconic motifs like skulls and crowns, this clothing line delves into lesser-known aspects of his work. “We wanted to take it in a way that spoke about the Black artists’ experience,” Bravado told Vogue. Some of the referenced Basquiat pieces “highlight those artists who were extremely influential to him,” Bravado explained.
“When I see many of the other collabs that people have done with the estate,” Bravado continued, “we always see the same things. But it’s like, ‘Okay, here’s a man who’s probably the most renowned artist of all time; let’s tell the story of the people who influenced him, and how he influenced us, and how we will continue to influence and continue to push forward Black art and culture.’”
Jean-Michel Basquiat emerged as a significant figure in the New York art scene during the 1980s. Despite his untimely death and relatively short career, his legacy continues to inspire and provoke. His works regularly achieve record sales, underscoring his enduring impact on art.
The new clothing line pays homage to Basquiat’s deep connections to Black art and culture, reflecting the influential artists who shaped his creative vision. By exploring these lesser-known influences, the collection aims to offer a richer narrative of Basquiat’s artistic journey and his profound impact on contemporary art.
The launch of this line marks a significant moment for H&M, which continues to expand its collaborations with high-profile artists and designers. By partnering with the Basquiat estate and Who Decides War, H&M underscores its commitment to celebrating cultural icons and promoting diverse artistic expressions.
The Basquiat-inspired clothing line will be available in select stores starting July 18, allowing fashion enthusiasts to own pieces that capture the essence of Basquiat’s unique artistic legacy. This collaboration honours Basquiat’s contributions and highlights the ongoing influence of Black art and culture in contemporary fashion.
As the fashion world eagerly anticipates the release of this collection, it is clear that the collaboration between H&M, the Basquiat estate, and Who Decides War represents a meaningful intersection of art and fashion. By bringing Basquiat’s lesser-known works to the forefront, this line encourages a deeper appreciation of his multifaceted legacy and the rich cultural context that informed his artistry.
This innovative clothing line is set to captivate both art lovers and fashion enthusiasts, bridging the gap between the gallery and the street. It serves as a testament to Basquiat’s lasting influence and the powerful narratives that continue to resonate through his work. As Bravado and D’Amore bring their unique vision to this project, they honour Basquiat’s memory while pushing forward the dialogue on Black art and culture.
In conclusion, the H&M collaboration with the Jean-Michel Basquiat estate and Who Decides War is more than just a fashion line—it’s a tribute to a legendary artist and a celebration of the cultural forces that shaped his world. This collection promises to be a significant addition to the ongoing story of Basquiat’s enduring legacy.
