COLLISION – A Fashion mashup between avant-garde designer Kit Woo and contemporary artist Peisy Ting

Fashion brand mashups have always made an impact in the fashion world and were one of the biggest highlights of 2021. In resonating with the local art scene and fashion enthusiasts, ZHAN Art | Space brings together two Malaysian talents from different backgrounds and aesthetics to create a fashion mashup that combines both contemporary art and avant-garde designs. A capsule collection of 10 looks designed by Kit Woo with Peisy Ting’s distinct prints will be showcased alongside his Spring Summer 2022 collection. The exhibition also includes Peisy’s new and experimental artworks inspired by the collaboration.

While collaboration between fashion designers and artists is nothing new, the idea of creating a visual art showcase is not as common. Growing up in a small town in Malaysia, Kit Woo has always been interested in the world of art. His collection and aesthetic often challenge the whole notion of the ‘right fit’ and have a flare of the avant-garde with unconventional silhouettes. The juxtaposition of fit is the perfect element required for Peisy to collaborate, innovate and showcase her new works.

“A collaborative project was needed to push myself into a new way of thinking, seeing and creating. By transforming the visual elements from a flat canvas to a 3D art form (wearable art) as well as creating with textile, the collaboration challenged my perspective in creation and also how my viewers reflect my works,” said contemporary artist Peisy Ting.

For Spring Summer 2022, Kit Woo explores the impact of two opposing elements: deconstructing and reconstructing. By combining the austere of perfected fit of formal-wear and the comfort-over-fashion of casual-wear, he presents a harmonious chaos of layers and overlapping elements on prints, a first by the designer in reflection of the collaboration with Peisy. The collection also acts as a prelude to his fashion show collection which will debut in Shanghai Fashion Week 2022.

The proposed fashion mashup seeks to energise the flagging art scene, and provide audiences with opportunities to appreciate arts and culture, as they bear witness to the evolving collaboration between art and fashion. By taking the first step to game change, Desmond Tong, founder of ZHAN Art | Space believes the partnership will stimulate participation and engage new audiences, and at the same time, spur other artists to explore beyond their comfort zone.

COLLISION – A Fashion Mashup by Kit Woo and Peisy Ting is scheduled from 17 January to 13 March 2022, comprise of paintings, gender-neutral clothings created from Peisy Ting’s prints and artworks, as well as craftsmanship from Kit Woo; truly an exhibition that blurs the line of art, bringing canvas to catwalk.