Emma Mcintosh‘s resume is something of a designer checklist. The fashion connoisseur has worked with the likes of Mary Katrantzou, Roksanda and until recently, was running the Embroidery and Jewellery department at none other than Christopher Kane. With lockdown however, like many others, Mcintosh chose to use the new found sense of freedom to pursue other interests. As an avid researcher, she immersed herself in books and looked to both art and artist’s methodologies for inspiration. The final outcome is the virtual creative platform, Paperback.
Paperback began back in March as an an outlet to share images and spark inspiration amongst others. Fast forward to present day the platform is now known as “The Gallery with a Brief”. Artists are invited to participate in Paperback’s Instagram exhibitions, where prior, they are given the same image to respond to, which functions as the brief. It’s then up to the artists to produce their own interpretation for the virtual gallery. According to Mcintosh, “the idea behind this is to set a challenge for all the artists involved and to prompt new ways of thinking and working.”
Artists take full creative reign when channeling their inspirations. Macintosh explains, “some say they have never worked from a brief and thoroughly enjoyed doing so, others find it a challenge as it helps to push their boundaries and some thrive on the fact that it’s something completely different and new.” Either way, the outcomes are certainly making up for the in-person gallery visits we’ve missed out on this year.
Artworks by Melvene James Aquende. All artworks created from a Paperback brief can be viewed and purchased here.
