Some creative shoots start with a big concept. This one started much more simply: Monty, Bronson, and I wanted to get together, have some fun, and celebrate art. I’ve known Bronson since college, and Monty and I have been friends for years, so this shoot felt especially easy and familiar. I’m constantly grateful for the artists in my life who push me to see things differently. There’s something special about finding people who seem to share your visual language, even when the work you each make is completely different.
Monty’s work is bold, colorful, graphic, and completely his own. It has so much movement and personality, and every time I spend time with his work, I notice something new. It always gets my brain going in a different direction. For this shoot, I paired fun fashion alredy in my closet with Monty’s artwork, including a gorgeous skirt he personally painted for me a couple of years ago, and had Bronson behind the camera. Having known Bronson for so long, I trust his eye completely. He’s an artist in his own right, and having his perspective as part of the process made the whole thing feel even more collaborative. We weren’t just documenting the clothes or the artwork; we were all bringing our own perspective to the same visual conversation and seeing where it took us.
That’s one of my favorite things about making art with friends. It doesn’t always need to be overly serious or precious. Sometimes it’s simply about experimenting, laughing, trying something unexpected, and creating something because it feels good to create. I’m grateful every day for artist friends like Monty and Bronson who continue to expand my horizons, introduce me to new ways of seeing, and remind me that art can be thoughtful and meaningful while still being incredibly fun.
All Photos by Bauman Photographers (Bronson Pate)
Fashion:
Top and Jacket: Bruce Glen Collection
Jeans: Alexander Wang
Skirt: Custom painted by Monty Montgomery
