Earlier in January, Shanghai Tang—Hong Kong’s renowned fashion brand announced its yet another round of collaboration with legendary artist Jacky Tsai, creating excitement among fashion aficionados. The latest Home SS24 collection which saw a departure from their previous garden-inspired themes, adapt to the essence of mythical dragon, vibrant nature, and the magical of dreams. Interestingly, this collection not only pays tribute to the Year of the Dragon but also commemorates Shanghai Tang’s 30th anniversary, emphasising the brand’s deep-rooted heritage.
From ready-to-wear pieces to home goods, the collection showcase Jacky Tsai’s impressive artistry in weaving and lacquer craftsmanship. These pieces were revealed to undergo a meticulous ten-layer process to achieve a glossy finish that captures the brilliance of the Lunar season.
Read on to learn more about Jacky Tsai’s creative inspirations for Shanghai Tang’s ‘Return of the Tang Dragon’ Collection.
How did this collaboration with Shanghai Tang come about?
My collaboration in “The Return of the Tang Dragon” for Shanghai Tang’s 30th anniversary celebrates the brand’s rich heritage by infusing traditional Chinese art with a contemporary touch. Through vibrant designs, we evoke nostalgia while presenting Chinese art in a fresh, relevant manner—a celebration of Shanghai Tang’s journey through the past, present, and future of Chinese culture.
What was the primary inspiration behind this collaboration?
Being the Year of the Dragon, I have always had a penchant for drawing dragons, and I’ve consistently aimed to merge Eastern and Western influences in my artwork. My interest in the Year of the Dragon stems from my deep appreciation for Chinese traditional culture and my passion for the arts. As someone skilled in painting, I find the dragon motif not only rich in Chinese cultural significance but also universally intriguing across different cultures worldwide.
By blending traditional Chinese elements like the dragon with Western artistic styles, I strive to create pieces that possess cross-cultural appeal, captivating both Chinese and Western audiences alike.
How long did it take for you to generate each design?
The duration of my artistic process varies, typically ranging from 1 to 2 months, with some projects extending to around half a year. The timeline is contingent on the specific medium I’m working with, as each artistic endeavor demands a unique approach and investment of time. Whether I’m immersed in traditional techniques, exploring digital artistry, or experimenting with mixed media, the intricacies of the project and the chosen medium play a significant role in determining the overall time frame.
Which one is your favorite piece from this collection and why?
I find satisfaction in each item featured in my collaboration with Shanghai Tang, all meticulously crafted with precision and care. Experiencing the warm reception, especially towards our reversible dragon-patterned jacket, has been particularly gratifying.
You have collaborated with a number of acclaimed designers before. How does this collaboration with Shanghai Tang differ from others?
Collaborating with Shanghai Tang differs significantly due to the brand’s deep cultural roots and commitment to blending tradition with modernity. This unique fusion aligns seamlessly with my aesthetic vision, resulting in a collection that resonates uniquely with both traditional and contemporary audiences.
What’s one thing about fashion that always surprises you?
One thing about fashion that always surprises me is its ability to constantly evolve and reinvent itself. Just when you think you’ve seen it all, there’s always a new trend, style, or innovation that emerges, pushing the boundaries of creativity and self-expression. Whether it’s a resurgence of vintage fashion, the adoption of unconventional materials, or the blending of cultural influences, fashion never fails to surprise me with its endless capacity for change and adaptation.
What’s next for Jacky Tsai?
Stay tuned!