Kristian Williams takes his bold artworks from canvas to kaftans
- Written by Kath Rose
Bespoke kaftan label Bonita to launch this October
Since making waves earlier this year with his debut exhibition Bold & Unbridled, a collection of strongly-coloured, neo-expressionistic pieces, dynamic young Brisbane artist Kristian Williams has continued his artistic adventure and will launch a bespoke kaftan label – BONITA – in October.
Putting pay to the term ‘wearable art’, Bonita silk kaftans feature William’s trademark bold, strong colours and designs, combinations which celebrate the spectrum and nod to influences from all over the world. The launch in October through Kaftan Sales Online stars a range of six eclectic and vibrant styles, each having been personally designed by Kristian.
“Bonita is inspired by brightly coloured, ethnic, embellished and exotic places and styles, created in my artistic style, which features very dramatic use of colour and shapes. Bonita has been designed for Australian women, to enable them to celebrate our warmer climate, with a touch of glamour and a sense of joy,” he said.
Now hanging in the distinguished REDSEA Gallery in Brisbane as well as a second exhibition under his belt, the 29 year old Brisbane-born recipient of the Minister’s Award for Excellence in Art (2003), was always headed for a career in the art world.
He comes from a talented family, with both his mother and grandfather having been artists; and his sister Hannah about to launch her own fashion label - Hannelli Sandals, which feature tasseling and bright colours with leather, also in late October.
“It was quite natural for us to assist each other throughout the design process as Hannah knew what women wanted and I had a great sense of colour coding, rhythm and painterly ability. We make a good team,” he said.
Leading Australian fashion identity and Brisbane styling doyenne Ms Di Cant said it was thrilling to see young upcoming designers and artists such as Kristian and Hannah Williams collaborate and celebrate their talents and their passion.
“We welcome a stunning combination of wearable art and stylish fashion from the brilliant young artist Kristian Williams. Often we have seen clever artists but here we have not only a passion for fashion, but a popular artist and someone with a clever eye for colour. I see a very promising and rewarding future for both Bonita & Hannelli – both brands push fashion boundaries – the kaftans and sandals are full of style and colour – I absolutely adore what is coming.
Bonita – perfect for Melbourne Cup celebrations with a fabulous headpiece; for lazy beach days; for dinner and drinks; for Spring soirees of all persuasions; for hot summer days and balmy nights; for statement making or for just popping out to get the milk….. there’s no rules for wearing a Bonita!
Bonita kaftans will be available for purchase online at kaftansalesonline.com.au from October 15th while Hannelli Sandals will be available for sale online from late October 2015. For all website updates follow @hannelli_sandals on Instagram.
Born with natural creativity and flair inherited by both parents, Kristian embarked on his artistic journey before he could reach an easel; his love for the brush and colour was natural. In 2009, he completed an undergraduate degree in creative industries majoring in visual art, and then further pursued his Masters of Creative Advertising. After success in both creative industries and high end fashion, last year he took that leap of faith, deciding to concentrate full time on his true passion - art.
BONITA – THE DETAILS:
SALES ENQUIRIES FOR BONITA KAFTANS: sales@kaftansalesonline.com.au
WHOLESALE SALES ENQUIRIES FOR BONITA KAFTANS: sales@kaftansalesonline.com.au
SALES ENQUIRIES FOR HANNELLI SANDALS: hannahelisewilliams@outlook.com
WHOLESALE SALES ENQUIRIES FOR HANNELLI SANDALS: hannahelisewilliams@outlook.com
INSTAGRAM: @kaftansalesonline@kristianwilliamsart
@hannelli_sandals
INSTAGRAM HASHTAGS: #bonitakaftans #kaftansalesonline #kristianwilliams #hannellisandals #hannahwilliams
FACEBOOK: Kaftan Sales Online Australia
