In a short period of time, Osaka-born artist Verdy has made a reputable name for himself in the creative and streetwear scene. With collaborations with Nike, Uniqlo, Human Made on his resume, he shows no signs of slowing down with his projects. With the backing of the likes of Jun Takahashi, and Nigo, he’s in with great company. We recently met up with Verdy in Hong Kong at his ‘MEET VERDY’ gallery pop-up in collaboration with AllRightsReserved to check out the exhibition and his most popular creation ‘Vick’ — a panda/rabbit character born on Awajishima Island. We caught Verdy for a moment at the pop-up to talk about his career, inspirations and what’s next for the designer.
How did you get into creative design?
I’ve always been into Harajuku creative culture. But it all started about 10 years ago when I first helped a friend to create flyers for his band. That was my first step into creative design.
What has been the inspiration of your recent work?
Both music and all types of art have always been the inspiration for my work. But the most part comes from my emotions. Whether I’m sad or happy, it can translate into art.
What do you think about the streetwear/art culture nowadays, and has it affected the way you create art?
I think that streetwear and art culture really blend together. Like KAWS for Dior, and Off-White and Futura. I think that there’s no line between art and streetwear. It’s an interesting culture right now. For my art, I don’t think that it’s streetwear or art, what I think is that everything is the same, everything is just art to me.
Why did you choose Hong Kong to show your work?
Since AllRightsReserved is based in Hong Kong, and because I haven’t done anything in Hong Kong previously, I thought that it would be a good chance to come and exhibit to the audience here. My dad always brought me to Hong Kong when I was young, and I have this really good memory of this place, so I think its really cool to be able to return and showcase my work.
I have done a lot of exhibitions and pop-ups in Japan and I felt really good about it. We got in contact with Hong Kong art and brand curator SK, and we both agreed that it would be a cool project that Hong Kong would enjoy.
Who would you want to collaborate with next?
I think that I’m all done with Nike and brands like that. I’m happy with what I’ve done, so I haven’t thought of what my future plans will be!
If you’re in Hong Kong, be sure to drop by the Soho Yard Gallery & Events Space, where the ‘Meet Verdy’ exhibition will be open to the public from November 15-20, 2019. In addition, you’ll be able to shop exclusive items including lamps, mugs, tote bags, and more. Prices start at HK$270 and go up to HK$8,475.