Successful Brisbane artist, Kristian Williams, has announced the translation of his bold artworks into a kaftan collection due to be released this October. We spoke to the young artist about his inspirations, his design process and his kaftan collection titled ‘Bonita’.
We are so excited to see your beautiful artworks being translated into wearable art. Why did you choose to display your works on kaftans?
KW: As an emerging artist, I felt that it was important to capitalise on my creativity. My mother and sister were continuously on the hunt for striking pieces - fashion that made heads turn - but there was nothing! So I thought, how cool would it be to translate my art into something wearable - something that doesn't take away the integrity of my gallery work. There is something so amazing about watching my art move on silk fabric. Majority of kaftans are ALL the same now - and I wanted to create something that hadn't really been done - something totally unique.
Is there a special meaning behind the name of your collection, ‘Bonita’?
KW: My sisters nickname has always been Hannah Bonita - (Spanish for beautiful) and I've always adored the word. Bonita not only makes me think of beauty, but it makes me think about faraway places, and exotic locations. There is something ethnic about it - and that is something that I think that translates through my designs.
Where do you find your inspiration?
KW: My inspiration comes from everywhere! Magazines, books, art, my imagination, cities, fashion and colour.
What key colours will be prominent throughout your Bonita collection?
KW: Orange, gold, lime green, hot pink, turquoise and blue. It’s hard to pin point a specific colour - my designs incorporate an abundance of colour on each garment!
You come from a highly artistic and talented family, with your parents and grandparents being great artists, as well as your sister being a successful designer. What was is like working with your sister to design some of your pieces?
KW: It was an incredibly straight forward and easy process. My sister and I are on the same page from an artistic point of view - we have very similar taste to our Mother, and seem to have an appreciation for the same aesthetics. What makes it work, is that my sister has a more measured approach to design, and I like to go into everything gung-ho (which doesn't always work). I have a creative eye for design and art, and my sister knows what makes women tick - she is a woman after all. When these two factors are combined, some extraordinary designs are created.
What was it about the fashion industry that made you want to delve into design?
KW: Because my sister and I both worked in fashion for a long time, we have a firm understanding of the gap within the local and national market. We both wanted to create something fashion forward and brave - something completely unique and good quality with an affordable price tag attached. I think a lot of designers are afraid to use bold colours and prints - not all - but this is what attracted me to designing kaftans for women.
Do you see yourself designing other pieces away from kaftans in the future?
KW: At this stage, my focus is on Bonita Kaftans and my art that hangs in galleries. I never rule out other avenues - I want to trial the success of my new line first, and get an understanding of what women want to see Bonita do in the future.
In your own words, why do you think Australian women will love your gorgeous kaftans?
KW: I think Australian women will love Bonita, because they enjoy celebrating colour, comfort and glamour. We live in one of the most beautiful climates in the world, and this allows women to wear kaftans (mostly) all year round. Women who aren't afraid to be noticed will certainly enjoy my designs.
What's next for you?
KW: I have an exhibition in Brisbane and Sydney next year, and I have to design the next range of Bonita Kaftans! I am keeping very busy, that’s for sure.
The Bonita kaftan collection will launch online at kaftansalesonline.com.au from October 15th. Be sure to follow Kristian’s Instagram and Facebook for all updates on his new collection.
Words: Jessica Lunan
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