UV/AV (Utopian Visions, Alien Vibrations) is a clothing brand based on a science fiction universe created by myself and fellow artist Olivia Gibian. During an artist residency in Taipei, Taiwan, we designed and constructed garments for photosynthetic aliens from another dimension who have never worn clothing before.

My role: brand development, creative direction, fashion design, web design and development, graphic design, copywriting

Olivia Gibian: brand development, creative direction, fashion design, copywriting

Miakoda Gale: photography

Charlotte Hornsby and Jesse Ruutilla: video

Jameson Zimmer and Alia Connor: web dev mentors

Challenge

Olivia and I both come from a fine art background and had been interested in making clothing for many years. We wanted to create something that would be at home both in the fashion world and the contemporary art world, balancing commerce and concept. We set the goal of creating the brand concept, designing and sewing three unique pieces, and photographing the lookbook during a three month residency in Taiwan. We had limited time, budget, and Mandarin speaking skills. And in employing the help of our friends and family, the result needed to be tangible and rewarding for everyone involved.

Result

We completed the garments, photographs, and brand concept during our three month residency, and organized an exhibition, built the brand identity and website, and shot the video, within 2 months of returning to New York. The project in its final form was a collection of 5 core pieces that were displayed at Treasure Town gallery in Brooklyn, NY, along with a lookbook, website, and video telling the story of the aliens. The event was attended by over 50 people and culminated in a dance party. 

www.uvav.co