A collection that explores the codes of differentiation drawing influences from civilisations untouched by our post-enlightenment culture. Named after the Polynesian supreme god, the collection rediscovers mythologies and animistic conceptions, masks and totems, tribal symbols and primitive art.

What would have happened if Claude Lévi-Strauss had discovered and studied a new species, a civilisation of creatures with arsenic in its makeup instead of phosphorus, like the life form found in Mono Lake, California? Would his theories, the basis of structural anthropology be different? Are behavioral patterns global or socially engineered byproducts of a specific cultural context? For Lion Blau, “IO – MATUA – KORE” is a tool for social and stylistic experimentation on the idea of being alien.

Alien, as in extraterrestrial life in pop culture or scientific research. An alien life form, with a completely different civilization, would probably use ‘garments’ and ‘accessories’ that bear symbolisms strange and uncanny to us.

Alien, as in civilizations that evolved detached from our ‘western’ world. Civilizations that may utilize strange masks or have symbolic tribal tattoos etched patterns or other permanent marks on their body. Civilizations like the Maori who worship Io Matua Kore as their supreme god.

Alien could even be the outcast of our post enlightenment society. Marginalized groups with codes of behavior and dressing completely different from mainstream, either by choice or due to the circumstances.

Lion Blau draws inspiration from the various conceptions of being alien in creating a collection of garments and accessories/prosthetics that explores differentiation within the context of fashion design.

Lion Blau, (email). No part of this web site may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without prior permission of Morfae and the copyright owner.