Art Comes First uses fashion and art to directly address racism and police brutality

Art Comes First recently released a capsule collection, shot by photographer Andrew Barber, acting as a prequel for their upcoming ‘Blues’ main collection, reflecting racial injustice and equality.

Having previously shared an editorial, titled ‘Artists can’t fear’ back in 2016, graphically addressing police brutality, Art Comes First is a brand that doesn't shy away from speaking out, and using fashion as a voice. The brand stands by this quote from Nina Simone: “an artist’s duty is to reflect the times” so it seems only right that after the country was shook by the death of George Floyd and the protests that followed, the brand would look for a way to express the movement through their collection.

Art Comes First presents their brand as ‘Humanswear’; a brand for everyone, of any background, culture, gender or age. While speaking out with strong political statements is at the forefront of the brand, there is also an important and thoughtful creative side to the collections, with the aim of creating a new, stylish subculture of rebels.

This collection features stand out graphics on vintage t-shirts and long sleeved sweatshirts, with slogans such as ‘Anti-Capitalist Fashion’ and ‘F*ck Racism’. While addressing the issue of racism, this collection also focuses on the importance of social distancing and quarantining, showcasing reversible face masks and shirts reading, “Covid-19 Broke My Heart but at Least I Saved Lives By Quarantining Myself.”

The brand is inspired by vintage fashion, old photographers and has a passion for reviving what is dead. It aims to pay homage to the past by bringing it to the present and innovating it for the future. In a time of mass consumerism, brands that focus on quality rather than quantity are undeniably important. Using quality fabrics, the items are distinct and stylish but re-wearable and adaptable to personal style. Adding unique touches such as their signature hand and scissor graphic to basic quality shirts and t-shirts, and giving the ability to pair stand out slogan pieces with more subtle but sleek denim or accessories, makes the brand accessible for everyone.

You can shop the capsule collection now at artcomesfirst.com.

CREDITS

Photography - Andrew Barber of Omnistyle 

Model - Dennis Okwera