In a fascinating blend of fashion, photography, and immersive design, the innovative "The Working Hour" zine, born from the collaboration of fashion luminary Thom Browne and distinguished photographer Robbie Lawrence, has been presented to the public. To celebrate its launch, acclaimed set designer Sean Thomson conceived and constructed a striking news kiosk at the Institute of Contemporary Arts (ICA) in London, offering a unique physical platform for the zine's narrative. This installation not only serves as a display but also as an artistic extension of the zine's core theme, drawing viewers into a meticulously crafted urban landscape.
Details on the Exhibition of "The Working Hour" Zine
The "The Working Hour" zine is a remarkable outcome of the Thom Browne x Asics partnership, featuring a compelling photographic series by Robbie Lawrence. His lens captures diverse models, spanning generations, adorned in Thom Browne's signature suits. These subjects are photographed on the vibrant thoroughfares of Tokyo, depicted in scenes that evoke the quintessential daily routines of Japanese businessmen – whether it's the hurried dash to catch a train or their seamless integration into a sea of similarly attired office workers. Lawrence expressed his vision for a holistic creation, where the initial design concept seamlessly extends to its physical manifestation. He articulated that his interest lay in developing a body of work that was conceived with its eventual exhibition in mind, and as the project evolved, Tokyo emerged as the perfect backdrop, a city where the suit remains a ubiquitous symbol of daily uniform. The aesthetic of "The Working Hour" zine deliberately harks back to the classic brand magazines of the 1980s, simultaneously paying homage to Japanese historical photography.
For the zine's grand unveiling, Lawrence collaborated closely with set designer Thomson. Together, they meticulously engineered a newsstand at the ICA, inspired by the familiar structures found across Japan. This rectangular metal edifice is adorned with Thom Browne's distinctive tricolor motif at its apex and is further embellished with intricate Tokyo streetscape elements, such as vents and a satellite dish, on its roof. Lawrence's dedication to detail was paramount; he aimed to create an immersive experience, complementing the newsstand with a phone booth and a lamppost, thereby completing the authentic urban ambiance. He explained their deliberate efforts to age and roughen elements, printing and pasting imagery onto the phone booth's sides to impart a sense of a lived-in environment. Lawrence sought to transplant a tangible fragment of the world he had captured photographically directly into the exhibition space. This installation, "The Working Hour" newsstand, represents Lawrence's inaugural foray into physical installations, yet it aligns with his broader artistic trajectory. He has increasingly focused on emphasizing the physical presence of his work, believing it crucial to remind audiences of the material existence of his creations in an era dominated by digital imagery. Following its London debut, the installation is scheduled to travel to New York for further exhibition later this month.
This innovative approach to showcasing a zine offers a profound insight into the evolving landscape of artistic presentation. It underscores the power of multi-disciplinary collaboration, where fashion, photography, and set design converge to create an experience that transcends traditional boundaries. The choice of a Tokyo-inspired news kiosk and streetscape not only contextualizes the zine's content but also transforms a static display into a dynamic, immersive environment. It reminds us that in a world saturated with digital content, the tangible, tactile experience of art holds an unparalleled value, offering a richer and more engaging connection between the creator and the audience. This project serves as an inspiring example of how artists can creatively challenge conventions to elevate the viewing experience, making the 'exhibition' an integral part of the 'artwork' itself.