Inspired by the Bloomsbury Group’s Omega Workshops, London-based designer Jonathan Anderson’s “Workshops” opens today in a space next door to the Ace Hotel London. The space was actually offered to Anderson last year as his own brand’s retail store, however he turned it down, because, as he tells Business of Fashion: “I don’t believe a brand our age should be opening a flagship store. It feels forced. We’re too young, we shouldn’t be operating outside of our means.”
Instead, Anderson has taken the idea of the Omega Workshops — inspired by Issey Miyake’s collaborative efforts — and decided to use the 250 square foot space to showcase his work with a number of creatives, including ceramicists, singers, photographers and editors — a different artist each month. First up is Spanish editor of EY! Magateen, The Printed Dog, and C☆NDY, Luis Venegas, who shot his favorite pieces from J.W. Anderson on his friends for a photo book called The Rain in Spain Stays Mainly in the Plain. Next month will see Anderson’s collaborative efforts with Ian David Barker, who photographed gay culture in the 80s. The chosen ones will all have to fit in with Anderson’s colorful choice of wallpaper, and a giant wardrobe right in the middle of the room.
