KD26 A

KD26 A is a brand new publication and the brainchild of KD26; a a creative studio by Korinna van Balkom and Daan Rietbergen. KD26 operates at the intersection of fashion, typography and art, and aim to ultimately realise 26 unique artworks, starting with the letter A, and ending with the letter Z. For A, the studio have created a 48 page publication that is a visualisation of both the process and final artwork behind the handcrafted, typographic kimono, KD26 A Kimono.

The process and the final work are combined on the cover and are reinforced when the publication is opened; on the left a lookbook with model and product photography (printed in full colour on coated paper) and on the right a section in which the typographic sketches of the letter A are combined with material tests (printed in Pantone silver and black on uncoated paper) and bound with a cahier stitch. The symmetrical shape of the publication reflects the characteristics of the kimono, with a central opening and a division of 4. By opening up the spreads of the process and the end result side by side, a dynamic is created between the two parts and references of the end result become visible in the process.

Both the publication and the kimono itself are testament to the skills and talents of KD26’s founders, who work together using their own strengths to elevate each others’. Van Balkom are known for their collaborative limited edition fashion pieces, while Rietbergen specialises in timeless typographic systems that are brought to life in various ways. Van Balkom brings Rietbergen’s typographic shapes to life by meticulously and systematically translating them into textiles, while Rietbergen’s unique visual language leads to unexpected adjustments in Van Balkom’s mouldings. These parallel processes elevate the garments into unique works of art.

KD26 offers a critical look at the contemporary fashion industry, where mass production and environmental pollution have become the norm. With their work, the duo aim to revalue fashion as a form of art, designing and crafting each item with respect and consideration for materials, craftsmanship, aesthetics, and the environment.

Their first collaborative project is a handcrafted and eco conscious kimono which is the result of extensive research into form, materials, and systems. The kimono was created from an upcycled 100% wool blanket, with the letter ‘a’ integrated using a cotton cord. Inspiration was found in the traditional Japanese kimono. The initial application of the original material had a significant impact on the final design. The shape of the letter ‘a’ moves from right to left in a repetitive way, guided by a grid, which makes the structured shape dynamic. The grid and the movement are integrated into the kimono using an enlarged and evolved tufting technique. Thanks to the two contrasting sides of the original blanket and the unique tufting method, the outside has a different colour and structure than the inside, allowing the kimono to be worn inside out as well.

By designing unique statement pieces and embracing sustainable materials and production, KD26 opposes mass production.

Limited edition of 300 copies €26, available through www.kd-26.com.

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