In what direction the industry (street culture & fashion) is going with these worldwide changes ?
I believe this unprecedented period is providing a foundation to reevaluate our priorities and making us ask questions of our behaviour and methods. What is essential? How are we contributing to the world in a positive manner. Is there anything we can do collectively and individually to improve things. Are we able to alter our practices to have less of a negative impact on the world. How are we able to interface with our customers in a more considered and honest fashion? How will we adapt our retail practices in lieu of these challenges this pandemic is creating? I feel that our concern for the environment is the key issue and developing sustainable practices the priority.
What cultural / subcultural movement has influenced your life the most ?
That has to be Hip Hop as it is more than just a music genre. It was a subculture that has now manifested into a full blown aspect of the mainstream which influences the world more than anything else. Its influence permeates though – fashion, art, education, politics, offering enlightenment and helping to shape history, creating a foundation for those less fortunate to escape the trappings of their upbringing.
What do you collect and what’s the most important piece of your collection?
I’ve been described as an unwitting archivist so guess I shouldn’’t argue against that lol, especially if likeminded people are preserving key aspects of street culture. I guess my first passions were comics and vinyl records but subsequently sneakers and apparel came into the mix. My most precious comic is possibly either Fantastic Four #48 (first appearance of Silver Surfer) or my first edition numbered hardback of The Dark Knight by Frank Miller. Record wise there’s a lot contenders but I’d say my first press of Main Source’s debut 12” ‘ The Atom’ is my favourite. Sneakers wise I’d say the secret Friends and Family edition 35th adidas Superstar in a briefcase from the 35th anniversary of that iconic shoe which was kindly gifted to me by Gary Aspden. On the apparel tip either my OG Double Goose, or my Tommy Boy x Carhartt x Stussy Staff jacket.
What artist you would’ve liked a face-to-face conversation with ?
Wow that’s a tough one…maybe Kase2 (RIP) the founder of Wildstyle as his mind and art was conceptually beyond that of his peers, inventing a new sub-art form and thereby elevating an entire movement within graffiti which inspired countless others.
Music and sneaker culture go always hand in hand and create a special alchemy, we experienced that when you DJed at Black Box in Rome. How do you imagine this type of events in the future?
Firstly I have to express my gratitude for inviting me to perform at Black Box. I really enjoyed the experience and meeting you and your great staff was fantastic. At the moment these type of affairs are being conducted virtually which leads to an emotional disconnect, in contrast to when everyone is actually physically together sharing the same moment and experience, simultaneously vibing off each other and the music. The experiential levels are diminished which sadly makes these affairs less memorable. Unless a vaccine is found, or an effective treatment is devised to cure patients, then these type of events will unfortunately become the new norm.
