Collaborations between artists with differing fields and mediums foster a different kind of creative thunder, resulting in a multitude of ideas that, while distinct, still holds the essence of the respective artist’s style.
Often, this collaborative spirit is brought about by a whim, an innate urge, or perhaps an obnoxious compulsion; getting carried away by the spur of the moment is, in fact, what happened between the photography duo behind Everywhere We Shoot, Ryan and Garovs Vergara, when they approached designer Geof Gonzales and Akong Gugma.
The result? Exquisite floristry juxtaposed against androgynous individuals in gaudy garment. The saturation of blues and reds appear almost radioactive, and the makeup on the models faces are equally as obscene. This contrasts with the tenderness of their languid demeanour and softness of the floral arrangements.
“We just did what we want. Nothing makes sense. And what came out was a superlative of intents and meaning.”
When asked about the concept behind the collaboration, Gonzales explains that they “thought of mixing drag culture with floral narratives. Venus as a boy by Bjork. Anthony Hegarty’s soul mixed with a soup of minestrone.”
This series was recently part of an exhibit, but only one of the photographs was showcased—the rest have yet to be published or see daylight.
“The shoot was very spontaneous,” he adds. “We just did what we want. Nothing makes sense. And what came out was a superlative of intents and meaning. Nothing too direct or spelled-out. In a world of focused aesthetic, a nuisance is needed.”
Photos by Everywhere We Shoot courtesy of Geof Gonzales.
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