I had posted a picture from Close up and Private a few weeks ago, but rather then the usual link and blurb, I thought I’d hold out for an interview of sorts, as I really wanted to find out a little bit more about the project.

It is a beautiful collection of images in itself, but the clothes worn and the way in which they are captured, then subsequently displayed, is where the true beauty is. I cannot help but wish for some of the items seen. Then there is the odd splash of a single colour, between the tweed and the denim images. The trendy coupled with the traditonal. So effortless, so precise, so pleasing. It’s a work I will continue to find inspiration from.

Sergei Sviatchenko is the artist behind the work, he was kind enough to answer some questions, so here you go, from the man himself.

WWB: What a fantastic collection of images, I can only imagine the sheer
amount of work in compiling it all. How did CUAP start?

SS: It started as an art project which was focusing on the details in men’s clothing. As an artist I work a lot with collages, and I was trying to create the same feel with these images. The idea was to work on many surfaces / textures. First came the items of clothing, then I put it all together, and began taking pictures. I had to work on them in order to get the particular colour and order for the website. My friend and collaborator Nello Russo would create it just as I was imagining it.

WWB: Where are all the clothes from?

SS: I am old enough to have my own classic collection, plus my kids staff contributed, and I borrowed some clothes from friends or shops.

WWB: What is next for CUAP?

SS: I was thinking about a pocket size look book, but it’s all in development so it seems it will remain a dream. I am from quite an old school mindset, so still think in the language of exhibitions - I really think the images will look great as prints.

WWB: The project is on-going, and shows no signs of slowing up. I don’t think that look book is an all too distant dream.

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