M Hogan

Hidden deep within the high peaks of the Himalayas, Bhutan - the land of the Thunder Dragon - is slowly emerging from its secluded existence.
With the rare opportunity to enact controlled development, Bhutan is cautiously facing the industrialised world and the possibilities that come with its introduction to the west.
01 EDITION looks at the holistic intertwining of Bhutan’s uniquely preserved identity and the western world’s traditional men’s dress. Through the deconstruction of tailoring, the introduction of raw materials and referencing of traditional textiles, a sensitive, natural look is explored which speaks of deep histories and new possibilities.
The relaxed drape and weight of the collection’s sculptural leather elements combined with the delicate, thread pulled, hemp shirting and the easy flow of open woollen pants, strike a balance between powerful masculinity and the softness of the feminine form – a subtle nod to Bhutan’s lack of distinct gender classification through dress.
The traditional plaid textile used in Bhutanese men’s dress is echoed in the exaggerated screen printing found upon the leather canvas and the meticulously thread pulled fabric which too creates a tartan motif. Each look comes as a distinct colour block referencing the shades found in the Bhutanese and Tibetan landscape as well as influences from the western art world such as the work of Franz Kline, Willem De Kooning and Richard Diebenkorn.
It is through the abstraction of these traditional influences that 01 EDITION captures the essence of the cultural manifestation currently underway in Bhutan. Through a respectful approach it’s hoped that this collection evokes the beauty and balance that Bhutan is seeking as it navigates a future path which maintains cultural integrity and selectively embraces a modern, western world.