Painted in Light. Rooted in Intention.
Fashion, Myth, and Symbolism (2017-New York Project)
Fashion, Myth, and Symbolism (2017-New York Project)
During a fashion shoot in New York City, international model Tsanna Latouche wore a FENDI leather jacket associated with Rihanna’s fashion line. The moment became a point of artistic inspiration, connecting fashion culture with themes that were beginning to emerge in Johni Bleu’s work.
Bleu incorporated winged elements into the jacket design, drawing from mythological references that would later reappear more directly in his paintings. In Greek mythology, Medusa and the gorgons are often depicted with wings, symbolizing transformation, power, and perception. These early visual choices eventually informed a later painting, Give Me Back My Wings (2020), which depicted Rihanna through the lens of Medusa mythology.
By linking contemporary fashion imagery with symbolic narrative, the project marked an early step toward the mythic and narrative-driven themes that would come to define Bleu’s evolving practice.
Fashion, Myth, and Symbolism (2017-New York Project)
If you would like to experience The Velvet Hour exhibition in person before it is taken down, please contact Johni Bleu to arrange a private viewing.
Thank you for being part of this moment, and your continued support.
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