1930’s – 1950’s Motorcycle clubs started popping up and they took on denim jackets as part of their uniform with club insignias on the back. Members would customize their jackets with studs, patches and unique embroidery. Chain stitching was the method of choice for creating graphics at this time.
1950’s – 1970’s Taking inspiration from the early motorcycle culture the free wheeling hippy culture that sprung up in the 60’s took denim art to a whole new level. Jeans and jean jackets started to become amazing works of art. Lots of different mediums were used during this time including painting, patch working, and extensive embroidery. North American youth began speaking their minds through their clothing, rebelling against war and conformity. Levis held a denim art contest in 1973 to showcase the amazing folk art of the era.
1980’s – the 80’s saw acid washing and bleaching come in to play as well as lots of bright colors and embellishments. Lots of companies started mass producing wild denim and the bedazzler became available to the public via infomercials. Yeehaaa.
If you would like to participate or have questions please email drewzal@yahoo.ca or stop by the shop to pick up your jacket. The date for this event will be announced once the artist list is finalized in a week or so. Please share this blog to help us get as many people involved as possible. Use the twitter and facebook buttons below.