The Gaze of Ludovic de Saint Sernin
This exhibition features the work of photographers and artists you value or know personally. How did you select them?
The choice was made spontaneously and naturally. These pieces are made by artists I love, and I’m lucky to be able to say they’re my friends as well. Through the lens of Willy Vanderperre Black Leather Eyelet Briefs became an iconic object, Miles brought Swarovski Brief for his performance for Marina Abramovich, Jean is my favorite artist and we will soon collaborate together, Igor and I have been friends on Instagram for many years, and Rick is simply my idol, his generosity, curiosity, and independence are qualities I admire a lot!
These works explore a certain concept of the body, masculinity, and sensuality. How do you reveal these concepts in your collections?
My collections are often autobiographical, reflecting my own relationship with the body and the spirit that animates that body. I never realized how well these things can be perceived by people. Before I started my brand, I always had to choose between a man and a woman in brands I admired, today I’ve developed a universe where people get to know each other without having to wear clothes. It’s a freedom that didn’t exist just a few years ago and nowadays it makes life easier for many of us. Sensuality is can be conveyed not only through matter and form but also through the image. The image is what is most important to me. This is my humble contribution to the world we now live in, and I hope to be able to continue for as long as possible.
You have 127,000 followers on Instagram. How would you define your attitude to social networks and this community in particular?
It’s a rich and diverse community that inspires me and with which I am in constant contact. My last collection was a tribute to this community because, without it, I wouldn’t be here today. The AW21 collection will continue this narrative, because nothing is more important to me than the people who surround me, support me, and make me grow as a person and as a designer. I’m constantly on Instagram, it’s a direct contract with each of the members of this beautiful community. But sometimes it’s also important to take breaks. It’s like a relationship. There is love and passion, but sometimes you need moments of peace.
Pop-up gallery of Ludovic de Saint Sernin at the JOYCE GALLERY – Palais Royal – 168 rue de Valois – 75001 Paris will be open from 12h00 to 17h30 until 24th January.