Born from the idea to personalise the classic vintage Polaroid OneStep Close-Up 600 camera with FENDI DNA, this Polaroid camera combines the design of this renowned instant camera from the ‘90s with the multicolour FF Vertigo.
The FF Vertigo motif – a new magnetic motif offering a twisted, turned version of the classic FF logo – and FF Fisheye motif – where the signature FF logo appears wavy and fluid as if seen through a fish-eye lens – are the results of the new collaboration between FENDI and the New York-based artist Sarah Coleman who is known for her disruptive manipulation of designer’s materials that she employs to rethink and repurpose everyday objects with an ironic filter. FENDI collaborated with her in the Design Miami / 2020 edition where she was commissioned to reinterpret the Miami Design District FENDI Boutique and create a series of one-of-a-kind design pieces.
FAD managed to grab a few moments of Sarah Coleman’s time in between her mission to repurpose, reinvigorate and add a bit of intrinsic cultural value to brands from her studio in New York.
Can you tell us about your art practice- the themes you explore and the questions that make you get up in the morning?
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I like the idea of blurring lines between fashion, art and design. My work is very organic, humorous and ironic. Nothing is too calculated or planned. A lot of trial and error. See what works and what doesn’t based on how I feel after I’ve made something. The chairs upholstered in designer material came about very naturally because I loved the idea of mixing the ordinary with the extraordinary. The logo materials I use are high quality coated canvas from preowned luggage that is usually falling apart from time spent in the backs of closets or basements. They are no longer used and I have a desire to breathe new life into them. To give these pieces a second chance. The detailed upholstery techniques of the pieces are lasting and very utilitarian. Most of the things I make are things I want people to use and touch. There is nothing so precious about them. Even my paintings are very sensory. I use a lot of texture and material. There is great care and time put into each piece because I want them to last. I love the idea of industrial design and high fashion coming together. Making pieces that exist in many areas that they don’t usually exist in. Utility and luxury are not often concepts that go together but I think that’s interesting and necessary. It’s important. The idea of folk craft dying is something that makes me very sad. I find it very important to have everyday items respected and treated with care. Folding chairs, for instance, are not something we take care of and it’s sort of funny that if we put expensive designer materials on them we now want to take care of them in the same way we do the things we cherish. They should be cared for no matter what. I see so many things being made that break apart or don’t work the way they could because people want to cut corners and minimize costs in order to increase profit. It’s killing the artisan world. I am so inspired by Japanese culture because of this. There is an innate respect when it comes to making everyday objects that I really admire and try to live by in my own work.
Do you have any plans to manipulate brands/ designer gear in the NFT metaverse?
Yes! I am currently creating NFTs on Foundation. Trying to figure it out but having lots of fun with this whole new world. I find it very exciting!
What have you been : watching, reading & listening to during Covid?
I’ve been watching a lot of old classics. I also just watched The Pixar Story recommended to me by a friend. I recently read Ninth Street Women by Mary Gabriel. I was sad when it was over. I was completely moved by the experiences of the female artists and will probably read it again. After I read it I threw myself into my painting full force and couldn’t be pulled away. Very inspiring.
Is your future gonna be great?
My present just keeps getting better and better so things look good as of right now! @sarahcoleman
The vintage Polaroid OneStep Close-Up 600 camera, first released in 1992, has the soul of a traditional Polaroid camera with the added ability to focus at short distances. The camera – using highspeed Polaroid 600 film, which requires less light, combined with a built-in flash and fixed focusing – forms an incredibly versatile film experience that’s easy to use and excels in nearly any situation. The Polaroid OneStep Close-Up 600 camera includes a 110mm lens, f/10 aperture, fixed focus lends of 4’-infinity plus a sliding close-up lens (for photos from 2’-4’), built-in flash (with manual override), and is compatible with Polaroid 600 film.
FENDI X Polaroid special edition vintage camera designed by Sarah Coleman is available in FENDI Boutiques worldwide and on fendi.com,RRP £690.
