Silk Stories Woven in Art: Gucci partners with visionary artists for the 90x90 project
Author: Phuriwat Hirunrangsee | Photographer: Courtesy of Gucci and Oliver Pilcher Art Direction by ASSOULINE Publishing
Mar 31, 2025
"...Gucci’s iconic printed silk scarf is being reimagined through the lens of contemporary artistry in the vibrant 90x90 project, inspired by the classic dimensions of the illustrious 90 cm x 90 cm silk scarf. In a bold move, Gucci has enlisted the talents of over nine visionary artists, each curating fresh interpretations of five beloved classic motifs: Flora, Fauna, Nautical, Equestrian, and the unmistakable GG Monogram..."
This project is a stunning fusion of the brand’s rich heritage and unconventional visions, redefining silk as a canvas for contemporary art. It presents a captivating blend of artistic expressions, spanning conceptual art, animation, and performance, all converging within the realm of Gucci to create truly wearable masterpieces of artistry. Each of the nine artists brings a distinctive narrative and style to the forefront, celebrating creative freedom in every exquisite detail.
The Artists Behind the Vision
Robert Barry – The Master of Conceptual Minimalism
A pioneer of conceptual art, Robert Barryhas spent decades challenging the boundaries of artistic expression. From his early explorations of immateriality—using radio waves and telepathy—to his later focus on language, Barry’s work is defined by its quiet yet profound presence. For Gucci, he brings his signature interplay of words and space, crafting a silk design that invites contemplation and open-ended interpretation.
Everett Glenn – The Graphic Narrator
New York-based Everett Glenn merges comics, painting, and performance to craft deeply personal narratives. Influenced by Franco-Belgian ligne claire comics, his work juxtaposes bold, action-packed visuals with themes of identity, memory, and resilience. His Gucci scarf designs unfold like graphic novels—layered with emotion, introspection, and dynamic storytelling.
Sara Leghissa – The Public Space Provocateur
Italian artist Sara Leghissa redefines public space as a medium, crafting site-specific works that challenge social norms through subtle acts of subversion. Drawing from an “ecology of resources,” they use everyday materials and bold typography to create thought-provoking, accessible works. Their Gucci scarves embody this philosophy, transforming silk into a platform for dialogue and disruption.
Currynew – The Digital Dreamer
Shanghai-based illustrator and designer Currynew blends pop culture, music, and video games with deeply introspective themes. Recognised for his work in Gucci Cosmos, his art explores the intersection of personal emotion and external reality. His silk designs bring a contemporary, almost futuristic energy to Gucci’s legacy, merging bold visuals with nuanced storytelling.
Jonny Niesche – The Alchemist of Light and Colour
Australian artist Jonny Niesche manipulates colour, light, and surface to create ethereal, immersive compositions. Inspired by minimalism, cosmetic palettes, and custom car finishes, his work exudes a polished, almost hypnotic quality. His Gucci scarf designs shimmer with shifting hues, capturing movement and perception in silk’s luminous folds.
Gio Pastori – The Paper-Cut Purist
Milanese illustrator Gio Pastori is renowned for his distinctive paper-cut technique, crafting bold, graphic compositions with effortless precision. His signature approach—cutting or tearing solid-coloured paper without preliminary sketches—translates seamlessly into silk, offering a modern, playful take on Gucci’s storied motifs.
Walter Petrone – The Cinematic Storyteller
Italian illustrator, animator, and graphic novelist Walter Petrone, known as Wallie, brings a cinematic sensibility to his work. From music videos to graphic novels, his art explores themes of identity, transformation, and emotion. His Gucci scarves capture this storytelling spirit, unfolding like animated sequences—fluid, expressive, and deeply evocative.
Yu Cai – The Urban Visionary
Chinese-born, Italy-based artist Yu Cai reimagines contemporary urban existence through a fusion of traditional techniques and digital innovation. Active in the NFT space, her work envisions alternative cityscapes that challenge conventional narratives. Her Gucci scarf designs reflect this perspective, offering a bold reinterpretation of modern life through silk.
Inji Seo – The Pop Culture Aesthetician
Seoul-based artist Inji Seo blends fine art and pop culture in a vibrant, energetic style. Known for collaborations with EXO, NCT Dream, Red Velvet, and brands like Apple and Nike, her work thrives on dynamic compositions and striking colour palettes. Her Gucci scarves capture this same pulse, transforming silk into a bold statement of contemporary culture.
As a testament to this celebration, Gucci has collaborated with Assouline to unveil "Gucci: The Art of Silk," an exquisite book that delves into the rich tapestry of Gucci’s silk legacy. From the iconic Flora scarf, immortalised by Princess Grace of Monaco since 1966, to modern reinterpretations by the brand's current creative director, this publication offers an irresistible exploration of Gucci's sartorial storytelling.
Filled with rare visuals and insider insights from the archives in Florence, along with expert commentary from skilled artisans based in Milan and Como, this elegant tome is a must-have for any fashion enthusiast eager to immerse themselves in the opulent world of Gucci silk.
Also See: Endless Narratives: A new form of window display by Gucci