Balmain kicks off Miami Art Week with Saype

By

Jennifer Braun

Published
Dec 2, 2021

Luxury brand Balmain is set to kick off Miami Art Week on Wednesday with an ephemeral contemporary art installation from French-Swiss art pioneer Saype. 

As part of the partnership, Saype’s created a one-of-a-kind installation on the expansive Atlantic beach, located just outside the Balmain Pavilion, at the southeast side of the Scope Art Fair’s atrium.

“Over the past couple of years, Saype’s work has excited those of us on the lookout for new ideas and voices in the art world,” said Balmain creative director Olivier Rousteing, in a news statement. “And, once you’ve been introduced to some of the artwork that he’s been dreaming up over the past few years, it’s impossible to not be impressed.” 

In particular, Rousteing noted how moved he was by Saype’s land-art painting on Paris’ famous Champs De Mars, directly below the Eiffel Tower, which was dubbed 'Beyond Walls', created over two years ago. 

“Ever since I saw that work, I’ve been hoping for an opportunity to work with Saype on something special, something that might be just as inspiring. I’m so happy that we get to finally do that, during Miami’s Art Week,” he added. 

“Like Olivier, I use a medium to speak to as many people as possible and convey emotions and messages,” said Saype. “Fashion and art are universal languages, and they allow us to overcome language barriers to speak to people's hearts. In addition, Olivier Rousteing has this charisma and this determination that inspires admiration. I have the same drive to inspire people, to push for change and questioning, to push my limits and inspire people.”

The collaboration comes to life in partnership with (Red) and Live Nation through its integrated Brand Entertainment agency Spotlite, which has partnered with Balmain on several events.

To premiere Saype’s creation on Wednesday, coinciding with World AIDS Day, Balmain will host an event in support of (Red) at the Balmain Pavilion. The event highlights offerings from Chivas and Perrier Jouet, and bring together innovative artists, influencers and art lovers, to celebrate art and new ideas, and to help spread (Red)’s message.

“(Red) and Balmain have partnered for a number of years in the fight to end AIDS, and today, we proudly stand together to fight both AIDS and the continued threat of Covid where it is most urgently needed,” said Jennifer Lotito, (Red)’s President & Chief Operating Officer. “This World AIDS Day, we are honored to join forces with Balmain and their collaboration with renowned artist & visionary, Saype, in the unveiling of his latest installation during Miami Art Week.”