10 Questions with Hyunse Kim

Al-Tiba9 Art Magazine ISSUE14 | Featured Artist

Hyunse Kim is a designer and artist, born and raised in Korea. He is majoring in Menswear and recently completed his BFA in Fashion Design at Parsons School of Design in New York. From an early age, he felt a change in his image when he wore clothes, and that is how he became interested in fashion. Since he started believing that clothes create the image people want, he loves sharing style, mood, color, textures, and details with people. Therefore, he is inspired by places, everyday life, emotions, colors, and nature that everyone can relate to. Through design, he wants to create a culture that everyone can enjoy easily and empathize with.

www.hyunsekim.com | @private__gray

ARTIST STATEMENT

As a designer and artist, he approaches fashion from a perspective that revolves around the intricate world of details. From a young age, he underwent a transformative shift in his self-image when he adorned different garments, sparking a deep fascination with fashion. Recognizing that clothing has the power to shape how people present themselves to the world, he developed a profound love for sharing style, mood, color, textures, and, above all, the smallest of details with others. Consequently, he draws inspiration from the places he encounters, the tapestry of everyday life, the wellspring of emotions, the vibrant hues of colors, and the enchanting wonders of nature elements that resonate universally with people. Through his designs, his aim is to create a culture of fashion that can be easily embraced and empathized with by "everyone."

At the core of his design approach lies a resolute focus on tailoring. His exploration of this craft kindled a fervor within him as he delved into various techniques and intricacies. Immersed in the art of sewing, he came to understand the patience and time that this discipline demands, further intensifying his fascination with design. It was through this transformative process that he found himself expressing the very act of creating garments within his designs.

STITCH - Collection Campaign, 2023 © Hyunse Kim
Designer: Hyunse Kim
Photo/Video: Cassie Zhang
Model: Émile Woon
Stylist: Jooyoung Kim
Makeup: Coco Zhu
Hair: Daniel J Lutz
Photo Assistant: Yuhua Wang
Stylist Assistant: Kyungeun Park
Assistant: Jungwoo Jo | Jamie Kwon

STITCH | Project Description

"STITCH" is more than a mere collection - it's a philosophy that I aim to reflect through the interconnections of our social fabric in the very threads and stitches of a suit. I believe that the unseen aspects of our social relationships, much like the invisible threads that hold a suit together, are the foundations of our society. My designs are a tangible embodiment of these ideas, adding a unique depth and significance to my creations. My reinterpretation of the office suit carries a double message. On the one hand, it's about aesthetics and comfort - creating a new type of suit that fuses innovative design with wearability. On the other hand, it's about highlighting the inherent social dynamics woven into the fabric of our everyday attire. By drawing on the process and techniques of suit-making, I bring to light the intricate network of relationships and interactions that bind us together. My designs reflect my conviction that our lives are intertwined, much like the invisible threads and stitches that give a suit its structure and form. For me, suits are not just functional garments but a testament to our interconnectedness in society, an idea embodied in the very threads and tailoring stitches that construct the final product.

INTERVIEW

Let's start talking a little about yourself. You are a fashion designer specializing in menswear. What inspired you to pursue this career?

As a designer and artist, my fascination and passion for the art of tailoring know no bounds. Exploring the intricacies and diverse techniques of this craft enriches my love for design as a whole and instills a profound appreciation for the patience and dedication required in sewing and garment-making.
To me, tailoring is more than just a craft; it is an art form in its own right. Each decision, from selecting the fabric's weave to shaping the garment, feels akin to completing a masterpiece with every stitch and detail. The beauty found in such delicacy brings me immense joy and satisfaction. This journey has taught me the true value of effort and perseverance as they elevate the significance of the final piece.
The art of tailoring is an ever-evolving process that demands continuous learning and improvement. It beautifully amalgamates tradition and innovation, honoring techniques and designs passed down through generations while embracing fresh perspectives and methods for creative expression. This diversity and freedom only add to the allure of tailoring as an art form.
My experience in sewing and garment-making has instilled in me a profound sense of gratitude for patience and time. This gratitude serves as a constant source of motivation, propelling me forward with new ideas and designs. The art of tailoring allows my creative potential to evolve continually, enabling me to shape new trends and leave a lasting mark on various aspects of fashion.

STITCH - Collection Campaign, 2023 © Hyunse Kim

Tell us more about your studies and work experiences. What are the experiences that shaped the designer you are now? Did you have any aha moments along the path, or did you have it all clear from the very beginning?

The world of fashion has always captivated and inspired me, with its stylish outfits and diverse styles catching my eye. My artistic instinct naturally drew me towards fashion design, immersing me in a realm of boundless creativity. Despite facing numerous obstacles, I ultimately chose this path, driven by my passion for design.
During my college years, I not only acquired technical knowledge about fashion and garment production but also learned the significance of effective communication and understanding. Engaging in conversations with individuals from diverse backgrounds, listening to their stories, and gaining insights into unfamiliar territories honed my ability to empathize and connect with others. As I designed clothes, I sought to incorporate themes inspired not only by my own memories and experiences but also by the social aspects of life.
The journey of design was not without its challenges and trials. However, I viewed these experiences as valuable opportunities for growth, allowing me to refine my skills and adopt a more flexible and organic design approach.
Through a process of experience and learning, I have grown as a designer. While I initially drew inspiration from my personal experiences, I have learned to discover new ideas and approach my work in more creative ways over time. My works have been showcased on reputable platforms, and I have had successful experiences.
Undoubtedly, fashion design is a challenging field. Effective communication and collaboration with diverse individuals have been crucial, and I have encountered unforeseen obstacles along the way. However, these challenges have only served to strengthen my confidence and motivation to push further. I take immense pride in my pursuit of creativity and innovation in the world of fashion. Though the path has not been easy, it has fueled my passion and purpose, preparing me to move forward with unwavering dedication.
Embracing the challenges that lie ahead, I am ready to continue striving, putting forth relentless efforts to achieve more growth and progress in the dynamic world of fashion. My journey as a fashion designer is characterized by a deep commitment to creativity, and I am eager to contribute my unique perspective to the ever-evolving landscape of fashion.

Reading your biography, you were interested in fashion from a very early age. Do you remember what initially sparked your interest?

My passion for fashion was ignited by my mother's constant love and support, which kindled my creative spirit. Even in my early years, she noticed my fascination with clothing and design and actively encouraged and nurtured that interest. Under her guidance, I had the opportunity to explore the world of exhibitions and artistic encounters, expanding my perspective and fostering my imagination. Throughout my tender childhood moments, she would take me to museums and galleries, exposing me to diverse artistic expressions. This exposure instilled in me a deep appreciation for the harmonious interplay of colors, the alluring textures of different materials, and the profound emotions they could evoke, all within the loving cocoon of her care. Each stroke of an artist's brush and every meticulously crafted garment became a wellspring of wonder and inspiration.
Furthermore, my mother's unwavering support gave me the courage to explore various styles and outfits, allowing me to satisfy my curiosity and express myself freely. She understood that fashion was more than just fabrics and threads; it served as a powerful means to convey one's identity and innermost thoughts. Thanks to her backing, I could confidently experiment with and embrace my unique sense of style, empowering me to shape my creative vision and move forward with a sense of freedom.

You also mention how clothes, accessories, styles, and so on can help or impact one's personality. What do you think is your ideal customer? And what would you like them to express by wearing your pieces?

My love for style and design runs deep. I firmly believe that clothing and accessories have the power to create profound internal transformations and reshape one's image. For me, selecting clothes is not just a task; it's a reflection of my personality and individuality. Styling is a beautiful form of self-expression, a way to convey to the world how I wish to be perceived. Moreover, I am fascinated by the rich history of clothing and its powerful impact on society. Observing my parents wearing suits to work, I learned how these outfits served as tools to discipline oneself, meet societal expectations, and project a positive image. This observation sparked my keen interest in clothing choices and the art of styling to represent the image I desire.
As a designer, my ideal customers are those seeking a fresh image through my creations. I firmly believe that my designs can fulfill their desire to express their inner selves authentically, breaking away from the constraints of conventional clothing. Witnessing customers donning my designed clothing and accessories, witnessing their enhanced self-confidence and internal transformations, fills me with immense satisfaction. To me, style is not just about appearances; it's a pathway to discovering new aspects of oneself.
My ultimate aspiration is for my designs to provide customers with novel experiences and help them embrace self-love and acceptance through styling. I envision my ideal customers becoming happier, more confident, and deeply connected with the world, expressing their unique stories through my dedicated and thoughtful designs. My passion lies in harnessing the power of style and the allure of design to inspire positive change and make a meaningful impact in people's lives.

On that note, let's talk about your collection STITCH. How do you design your pieces? What are your influences or your sources of inspiration?

This collection offers a fresh interpretation of the familiar office suits that surround us daily, drawing inspiration from the suit-making process to present a novel approach to this classic attire.
Entitled "STITCH," this collection holds a profound significance beyond being a mere assortment of designs; it embodies a philosophy that delves into the interconnectedness of our social fabric, woven together by the very threads and stitches that construct a suit. I firmly believe that the invisible aspects of our social relationships, much like the hidden threads that bind a suit, form the very essence of our society. Through my designs, I aim to give tangible form to these intangible ideas, infusing each creation with depth and meaning.
My reinterpretation of the office suit conveys a dual message. Firstly, I prioritize aesthetics and comfort, crafting a fresh and innovative type of suit that seamlessly blends style with practicality. Secondly, I seek to highlight the intrinsic social dynamics embedded in our everyday attire.
By drawing upon the art and techniques of suit-making, my intention is to shed light on the intricate network of relationships and interactions that unite us as individuals. I want my designs to reflect my strong belief that our lives are intricately connected, much like the unseen threads and stitches that give shape to a suit. To me, suits symbolize more than just functional garments; they serve as a testament to the interwoven nature of our society—a concept that I've endeavored to embody in every thread and tailoring stitch, bringing the final product to life. My hope is that this collection sparks meaningful conversations about the profound significance of our social fabric and inspires people to appreciate the beauty and meaning of each piece of clothing we choose to wear.

The collection is targeted to both men and women. Do you think genderless fashion is a temporary trend or a much-needed and long-lasting change?

I firmly believe that the rise of genderless fashion will continue to flourish. Fashion has always been a reflection of societal and cultural developments, and it is steadily moving towards greater inclusivity and appreciation for diversity. In the past, rigid dress codes and gender-based norms were prevalent, but in today's world, these constraints are gradually giving way to a more open and accepting approach. People are increasingly valuing the freedom to choose and express their own unique style.
This shift towards embracing individuality has also profoundly impacted the fashion industry, resulting in a more diverse representation of genders and trends. Moreover, cultural exchange and globalization have played a significant role in merging various inspirations and influences, leading to the incorporation of fresh and innovative elements in fashion.
The rich tapestry of cultural diversity in fashion is breaking down traditional boundaries, fostering the creation of boundary-pushing and inventive styles. As we move forward, I am confident that the fashion industry will continue to champion inclusivity and celebrate the uniqueness of each individual, paving the way for a more inclusive and open-minded fashion landscape.

Why did you choose to concentrate on the suit specifically? What does it represent for you, and how did you twist it to make it more your own?

The allure of suits captivated me from the start, driving me to study and explore their intricate and sophisticated craftsmanship. Among the many facets of clothing construction, I am particularly drawn to the significance of details. I find immense value in dedicating care and time to the often-overlooked aspects, such as pockets, stitches, and finishing touches.
Crafting a single suit is a labor of love, involving numerous steps that I find deeply charming. From the meticulous hand-stitching to shaping the garment's basic form, each stage of the process carries its own unique appeal. Drawing inspiration from traditional tailoring techniques, I have seamlessly incorporated these methods into my work, resulting in distinctive and liberating designs that allow the suits to exude a sense of freedom in their form.
This entire process is truly captivating, and my focus on the minutiae brings me immense joy in creating one-of-a-kind and exceptional suits. It is in the artful attention to these details that my passion for suits finds its true expression, and I am driven to continually push the boundaries of craftsmanship to craft exceptional and remarkable pieces.

Have you ever thought about starting your own brand? Or would you like to work for bigger, more established brands? And if so, would you lean more toward street style or luxury fashion?

I am excited about my plan to launch my own brand, aiming to revolutionize the world of fashion. The core vision of my brand is to reinterpret clothing forms and embrace unique designs that break free from conventional norms. Just like other renowned brands, I am determined to infuse my distinctive creativity into every piece of clothing I create, ushering in a fresh era of fashion.
My primary goal is to establish a new and captivating brand identity, and I plan to achieve this by creatively distorting various components of clothing. From playing with colors, fabrics, and patterns, to exploring innovative techniques, I seek to craft garments that are truly original and visually stunning. This way, I hope to offer customers a distinctive and unparalleled way of dressing that celebrates their individuality.
Through my brand, I am driven to produce a collection of imaginative clothing, sparking excitement and inspiration in the hearts of fashion enthusiasts. I want people to experience the allure and beauty of entirely new fashion styles, encouraging them to embrace self-expression and push the boundaries of what's considered fashionable. With each unique creation, I aim to convey a message that fashion is not just about clothing but a powerful means of expressing one's identity and showcasing the beauty of individuality.

Recently, we have been witnessing growing attention toward sustainable fashion. Where do you stand in this regard? Do you embrace this movement, or is it just greenwashing, in your opinion?

My fashion philosophy is rooted in the pursuit of sustainable fashion. I employ a unique approach that involves reinterpretation through tailoring, allowing me to recycle existing and vintage clothing and repurpose them into new and eco-friendly designs.
By breathing new life into old garments through reinterpretation, I significantly reduce the need for disposal and promote resource recycling. This approach fosters sustainable production and consumption while minimizing the environmental impact. My ultimate goal is to use my brand as a platform to raise awareness about the importance of sustainable fashion, offering clothes that stand the test of time, transcending passing trends, and contributing to the preservation of our planet.
When creating products, I give utmost importance to fair production practices, ensuring that all aspects of the process are environmentally responsible. I actively incorporate eco-friendly materials and technologies, striving to craft clothing that embodies the principles of sustainable fashion. My brand is committed to growing as a socially responsible entity, embracing the values of sustainability, and leaving a positive impact on the fashion industry and the world at large.

Finally, what are your plans for the future? Do you have any upcoming project or launch you want to share with us?

I am eagerly preparing for a momentous event—the launch of my brand. I am thrilled to unveil an exquisite new collection that embodies my dedicated efforts and creativity. I have poured my heart and soul into this collection, and I am confident it will bring excitement and joy to all of you.
I can't wait to share this precious moment with you all, and I am diligently preparing to provide more detailed information very soon. I am eagerly looking forward to meeting you all and expressing my gratitude for your support.

Artist’s Talk

Al-Tiba9 Interviews is a promotional platform for artists to articulate their vision and engage them with our diverse readership through a published art dialogue. The artists are interviewed by Mohamed Benhadj, the founder & curator of Al-Tiba9, to highlight their artistic careers and introduce them to the international contemporary art scene across our vast network of museums, galleries, art professionals, art dealers, collectors, and art lovers across the globe.

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