 |
| Images from Wilkinson's book: More is More |
Tony Duquette was and still is known for his elaborate, ornate and all together fabulous interiors. His interiors expel confidence and energy. What interests me most however, about Duquette were his roots of being a display artist. While still in school he began his career like many famous artists and fashionistas (Andy Warhol, Linda Fargo, Simon Doonan) behind the glass of window displays and the interiors of a department store. Tony worked at Bullocks Department Store in Los Angeles.
 |
| Bullocks Department Store - Visual Displays by Tony Duquette |
I believe it was his origins of this field, in addition to the community of Old Hollywood greats (as Lonny put it) that caused him to cherish the power of illusion. Like any other great display artists, he used whatever materials happened to be available to him at the time, from solid gold to gold paper, from 18th-century silk brocade to Styrofoam packing. He always said, "Beauty, not luxury, is what I value." Isn't that true though? I would say the job of a visual designer is 1) to sell the product 2) make it look beautiful and appealing.
With that said, in the name of Tony Duquette, Tony Duquette Inc. has teamed up with Coach brand to sell products that are both beautiful and appealing inspired by Duquette's iconic design elements.. Hutton Wilkinson who began his career as an apprentice to Duquette has now evolved into President of Tony Duquette Inc. He recently released a book entitled Jewelry, which features the one-of-a-kind pieces that Tony created for friends and clients.
How exciting for Coach to team up with such a power house name. I wonder if Tony were here today, would he be for or against this collaboration? Any thoughts?
