Stuart Semples Denim Art in Selfridges

October 17 - November 15

Denim is a way to externalize and broadcast our cultural choices, though its rich and varied history, and constantly evolving heritage it has always illustrated sub-cultural shifts. Jeans are undoubtedly one of the finest inventions of the modern age; they have given us images of Elvis shaking his hips, James dean, Bruce Springsteen, hippies, anarchistic punks and high fashion glamour. Most of all they have established themselves as a perfect second skin for billions of people worldwide.

I’m interested in how this second skin protects and broadcasts. How it reflects our identity and cultural tastes. Whether flared, distressed or just perfectly fitting, they can tell us so much about the body within them and ultimately the mind of their owner. I’m fascinated by the way this interacts with our outer environment, the way our bodies move and what they come in contact with changes these garments to be unique in their wears and tears, blemishes and stretches.

I want to take denim to an alternate place in a parallel future, where pop culture has faded, its symbols a messy collision. The shared language we have in mass culture’s celebrities, pop songs and images has faded and no longer provides our point of reference with each other. So we stand atomized, clad in denim. Our brands on a pedestal as the loving parents who understand our inner needs, in them we trust the transition from inner identity to outer communication. If idolatry is the worship of any cult idea or image other than God…

WELCOME TO MY CULT OF DENIM"

- Stuart Semple 1st August 2008

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