frederick the magnificent
My latest love affair comes in the form of a man with a paintbrush. Mr. Frederick Watson gives my love of fashion meaning, and opens up the doors to a world where fashion and art not only collide, but are one in the same.
Above, Frederick Watson’s piece, “the thirties,” one of my favourite pieces from the collection.
Since the sixties, he has been capturing the beauty of women and fashion like no other. Frederick’s love of art began with the stage, but soon fell victim to the world of fashion, creating campaign’s for the likes of a particular “Mr. Smith,” bringing him much success in the early days of his career.
Where exactly does he draw his inspiration from? Everything from his mother’s flamboyant red hair, old black and white movies, Shakespeare, and of course, the influence of the New York fashion scene, which he frequented quite often.
Frederick Watson’s piece, “Dior”
None other than “Yves Saint Laurent” from Frederick Watson’s collection of masterpieces.
This incredibly talented Canadian fashion illustrator and artist, hails from rural farmland…don’t all of the greats?? In the early days, fashion photography was taken much more seriously than the works of fashion illustrators, such as Frederick Watson, throughout Toronto and North American culture. But back then, Europeans saw it for what it was; extraordinary works of art, giving a unique glimpse into the world of fashion. Today, Frederick is finally recognized in his native Toronto, as a significant part of fashion and an appreciated talent.
“seduction”
“emerald”
“ice”
“carefree”
Upon myself meeting Frederick Watson at a recent showing, he explained to me that the majority of the pieces had been done over thirty years ago. At my first initial sight of each piece, and due to my own ignorance, I would’ve never have come to that conclusion on my own terms. But upon gazing into the collection, I found myself getting lost in another time. Although there may be a “retro” feel, each piece easily still fits in with the open fashion concepts of our time.
“lady”
My other favourite of the collection, “runway”
“attitude”
“lip stick”
So, here’s to Mr. Frederick Watson…a true talent in the Canadian fashion industry.
Photos of artwork and Frederick Watson sources
View more of Frederick Watson’s artwork
His work was beautiful at Lobby. This is an example of future hot.