Leikeli47 Is Hedi Slimane's Latest Muse
Here’s an exclusive first look at Slimane’s shots.
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We all know Hedi Slimane as the creative, artistic and image director of Celine, but one of his true passions and talents is photography. Now, Slimane has captured the Virginia-born artist Leikeli47 for his latest series of portraits, spotlighting the musician in her signature balaclava and an array of new-season Celine garments.
Speaking on the photographs and rapper, Hedi Slimane said: “I am really fond of Leikeli47, her distinctive and cool sound and sophisticated flow, her strong and endearing personality.”
The photographs are all shot in black-and-white, a signature Slimane approach, and see Leikeli47 wear a Celine-branded tracksuit alongside a pair of Celine CT-01 “Z” sneakers in white. Elsewhere, Leikeli47 wears a Celine hoodie and an oversized, shaggy overcoat.
Becoming a muse for Slimane was a big moment for Leikeli47 too. HYPEBEAST spoke with Leikeli47 to understand more about the photographic series:
HYPEBEAST: How did the project with Hedi come about? Had you been in contact before?
Leikeli47: He/his people reached out and the rest was history. It was our first time meeting.
Were you aware of Hedi’s work before collaborating with him?
Absolutely. Both, myself and my debit card.
Several other performers, from Orville Peck to Billie Eilish and SIA have gone to great lengths to conceal some or all of their appearance. Why do you think artists are increasingly concerned with maintaining that kind of privacy?
I don’t care to analyze. Whatever the reason, may it grant them peace.
You’ve been on a rapid rise — did the lockdowns slow that down for you? Did it change your outlook on your career, or your ambitions?
Nothing can slow me down but me. I’m still on my path of steady learning and having fun. if anything my desires and intentions are more pronounced. I know who I am and I know exactly what I want.
What’s next for you? How are you hoping to end 2022?
With a bang.
Take a look at the photographs shot by Hedi Slimane above.
In other news, OAMC is releasing a capsule to celebrate Union LA’s 30th anniversary.
