In conversation with Rick Owens about his time in isolation, and what he hopes is next for fashion

Read time 4 minutes

Photographs by OWENSCORP.

"Rick Owens on Finding Grace in Lockdown: The Art of Living with Purpose and Fashion" In a candid conversation, Rick Owens looks back at the transformative period of lockdown, reflecting on the lessons of grace, humility, and the profound importance of living with purpose.

For Rick Owens, the global lockdown was a time of introspection, grace, and humility. The celebrated designer found himself reconnecting with the world around him in unexpected ways. From following the progress of beehives on his roof to marveling at newly hatched ducklings in the neighboring gardens, Owens embraced the quiet beauty of his surroundings. This period also gave him the luxury of time—to immerse himself in art, literature, and music, drawing parallels between the transcendent and the fleeting.

Reflecting on this time, Owens shared how the pandemic underscored the fragility of life and the cycles of death and rebirth. “When you think of all the contention and disharmony and things that could go ecologically wrong in the world, it’s a miracle we’ve been spared a crisis like this for so long,” he remarked. Owens emphasized the importance of doing one’s best in the face of such fragility, finding meaning and glory in the effort itself.

Lockdown also became a moment to reimagine life’s priorities. Owens compared the stillness he experienced to the idyllic scenes of nymphs in Bouguereau paintings, cherishing the suspended time spent appreciating beauty. Whether studying works by Pierre Legrain or listening to the operatic finales of Richard Strauss, Owens viewed these moments as acts of gratitude and profound reflection.

When asked about the role of fashion during such challenging times, Owens highlighted its ability to provide grace and beauty. He noted the responsibility that comes with being an aesthetic voice, stating, “The pleasure of grace and beauty is one of life’s greatest rewards, and some people can provide that better than others.” For Owens, fashion transcends escapism, often pressing the same emotional and intellectual buttons as art.

Owens also shared his belief that fashion communicates more than just style—it reflects values, modesty, and respect. “The way you present yourself can telegraph your character,” he explained. “Fashion can subtly communicate a set of value systems before you open your mouth.” This aspirational quality, Owens argued, remains a cornerstone of the industry and one that will always resonate.

Ultimately, Owens views this time as a lesson in humility, responsibility, and gratitude. By embracing beauty and simplicity, he found strength in grace and the courage to face life’s fragility. As the world continues to evolve, his reflections offer a compelling reminder of fashion’s deeper role in shaping not only how we look but also how we live.

Kylar: We have all been spending more time at home. How has that been for you?

I researched anthroposophic furniture, we gardened, we played with the cats, we followed the progress of our beehives on our roof and the newly hatched ducklings in the gardens off our terrace next door. I listened carefully to the final acts of Richard Strauss’ Elektra and Salome which took on a special significance under the circumstances – stories of misguided urgencies culminating in a transcendent peak of glory before extinction.

Kylar: What do you feel we will take away from this experience?

Rick: When you think of all the contention and disharmony and things that could go ecologically wrong in the world it’s a miracle we’ve been spared a crisis like this for so long. Life is all about cycles and death and rebirth so doing our best in the face of this fragility is the meaning and glory of life – doing our best while we can. We’re all going to come out of this with a lesson in humility and responsibility and that’s the silver lining.

“In a time of uncertainty, we are reminded of the importance of living with purpose, humility, and grace. Fashion, at its best, is not just about escapism, but a powerful form of self-expression that communicates our values before we even speak.”

Kylar: How would you say the period of lockdown changed your view of things – your view of the world?

Rick: My memory will be that in the face of threat, we had a minute to feel profound gratitude. It made me think of those Bouguereau paintings sitting alone in the Louvre – of nymphs brushing their hair under trees in a glade while they composed poetry in their heads. I felt that we were recreating our version of that – suspended time absorbed in the appreciation of beauty.

Kylar: What is the importance of fashion in these circumstances – in any circumstances?

Rick: The pleasure of grace and beauty is one of life’s greatest rewards and some people can provide that better than others. I’ve been allowed to be an aesthetic voice so I feel a responsibility to bring that to the table. I always choke at calling fashion art. But as the fashion world gets more saturated and competitive, to stand out, you have to go to another level, a level that presses a lot of the same buttons that art does. There was a quote attributed to Winston Churchill when asked to cut arts funding in favour of the war effort: “Then what are we fighting for?” was his reply. Except it wasn’t – that quote has been exposed as fabrication but isn’t it compelling and absolutely convincing? Doesn’t it sound just right? Hun [Michèle Lamy] has been using that phrase as her leitmotif for years: “What are we fighting for?” And I always joke with her: “Why do we have to fight at all?!” But I see her point, to figure out what your priorities are and take a stand.

Kylar: Fashion may be a form of escapism – an aspiration, a dream. How is that important now that reality feels this harsh? Or do we keep it real?

Rick: Fashion can be about escapism but I have always been interested in the aspirational side of it – wanting to present the self you hope eventually to become. The way you have decided to present yourself to others can telegraph your character, it can signal modesty, respect for others, a sense of order. Fashion can subtly communicate a set of value systems before you open your mouth. That’s the direction of fashion I’ve always been interested in and I suspect there will always be a niche for it.

As the conversation wraps up, Rick Owens leaves us with a powerful message about the balance between fragility and strength. Throughout the lockdown, he found solace in nature and the small, intimate moments of life, such as watching the progress of his beehives and the birth of ducklings. This sense of immersion in the present, appreciating the beauty around us, feels more relevant than ever. Owens suggests that in a time of uncertainty, we are reminded of the importance of living with purpose, humility, and grace.

Owens also touches on the role of fashion in navigating these turbulent times. Rather than seeing fashion as a superficial escape, he views it as an aspirational form of expression, a way to present ourselves in alignment with our values. In an increasingly competitive and saturated fashion industry, Owens believes the true power of fashion lies in its ability to communicate without words, conveying modesty, respect, and character before anything is said.

Looking forward, Owens’s thoughts echo a profound truth: that life, with all its cycles and uncertainties, invites us to do our best while we can. The grace with which we move through the world, the beauty we seek, and the art we create are all reflections of our responsibility to the present moment. As he continues to evolve and lead in the fashion world, Owens’s philosophy reminds us that there is always room for grace, humility, and beauty—even in the face of adversity.

Text by
Kylar Ashton

Photography by
Rick Owen

Posted
February 5, 2022

Text by
Kylar Ashton

Photography by
Rick Owen

August 9, 2018

Rick Owens looks back at lockdown and reflects on the strength in grace and humility, having the time and space to immerse himself in learning and following the progress of the beehives on his roof and the newly hatched ducklings in the gardens next door.

Kylar: We have all been spending more time at home. How has that been for you?

Rick: We were lucky enough to have the comfort of a lot of space, a slice of outdoors and we spent our days under the trees reading and absorbing and learning about things we had put off for later. I read Edmund White, I pored over Joseph Beuys drawings, I studied Pierre Legrain’s work for Jacques Doucet and Doucet’s patronage of Rosseau, Picasso and Eileen Gray and Georges Hoentschel.
I researched anthroposophic furniture, we gardened, we played with the cats, we followed the progress of our beehives on our roof and the newly hatched ducklings in the gardens off our terrace next door. I listened carefully to the final acts of Richard Strauss’ Elektra and Salome which took on a special significance under the circumstances – stories of misguided urgencies culminating in a transcendent peak of glory before extinction.

Kylar: What do you feel we will take away from this experience?

Kylar: How would you say the period of lockdown changed your view of things – your view of the world?

Kylar: What is the importance of fashion in these circumstances – in any circumstances?

Kylar: Fashion may be a form of escapism – an aspiration, a dream. How is that important now that reality feels this harsh? Or do we keep it real?

By & Large Film Philosophy Photography Rick Owens Unique Perspectives

Here & Now

Dissenting from reality: Meet Mua Sabu Suzuki and Photographer Mika Kailes

Read time 4 minutes

Text by
Kaden Mason

Photography by
Mika Kailes

Posted
March 30, 2024

Photography by Mika Kailes.

Make-up is more than a beauty ritual; it’s a reclamation of identity, a rebellion against the predetermined, and a medium for expression.

In a world that is often preoccupied with conventional beauty standards, make-up has become more than just a tool for enhancing appearance—it has evolved into a form of rebellion, a medium for storytelling, and a catalyst for self-discovery. For 21-year-old make-up artist Sabu Suzuki, the transformative power of make-up transcends its surface-level appeal. Swedish-born and London-based, Suzuki’s artistry is bold, intentional, and disruptive, challenging societal norms and redefining what it means to be beautiful in an era of conformity.

Suzuki’s recent collaboration with photographer Mika Kailes is a testament to his unique approach to the craft. Together, they have created a series of striking images that capture the fluidity of identity and the interplay between light and texture. Each look tells a story that resonates on both a personal and universal level. For Sabu, make-up is not just about painting faces—it’s about bringing inner truths to life and celebrating individuality in its most unapologetic form.

But Sabu’s journey hasn’t been without challenges. From navigating a competitive industry to overcoming personal struggles, he has faced moments of doubt and uncertainty. Yet, through it all, he has remained steadfast in his belief that make-up is a powerful medium of expression. “Make-up,” he says, “is not about hiding who you are—it’s about revealing who you want to be.”

As we sit down for this conversation, Sabu reflects on his beginnings, inspirations, and the philosophies that drive his work. With a laugh as vibrant as his creations, he welcomes us into his world—a space where art meets identity, and where every brushstroke is an act of self-empowerment.

Photography by Mika Kailes.

Kaden: Can you recall the first time you did someone’s make-up? What was the experience like?

Sabu Suzuki: Oh, absolutely! It’s seared into my memory—partly because it was such a disaster but also because it was a pivotal moment for me. I remember using this drugstore foundation that was completely the wrong shade and piling it on like I was frosting a cake. The end result wasn’t pretty, but there was something magical about the process. It was the first time I felt the thrill of transforming someone’s appearance, even if I didn’t quite know what I was doing. I think those early attempts are crucial—they teach you to embrace imperfection and to keep experimenting until you find your voice. Looking back, I realize that the heart of what I do now was already there in those clumsy moments: the desire to tell a story and create something meaningful.

Kaden: Why do you believe make-up is important in today’s world? It feels like people have very polarized opinions about it.

Sabu Suzuki: That’s such a loaded question, but I love it because it gets to the heart of why I do what I do. Make-up is important because it’s one of the few art forms that’s accessible to almost everyone. You don’t need a gallery or a platform to make an impact—you just need a face and some imagination. At the same time, it’s also a deeply personal thing. For some, it’s a way to express joy or creativity; for others, it’s a shield or a source of confidence. What’s fascinating to me is how polarizing it can be. Some people see it as empowering, while others see it as superficial. I think both perspectives miss the point. Make-up isn’t about vanity or conformity—it’s about choice. It’s about taking control of how you present yourself to the world, and in that sense, it’s incredibly powerful.

Photography by Mika Kailes.

Kaden: When did you know that make-up was going to be more than just a hobby for you?

Sabu Suzuki: That realization hit me like a ton of bricks during one of the hardest periods of my life. I was going through a lot emotionally and felt completely disconnected from myself. One day, almost on a whim, I started playing with make-up. It wasn’t for a job or a look—I was just painting my face to see if I could create something that felt alive. That process became my therapy. It helped me reconnect with parts of myself that I thought were lost. Over time, I started to see make-up not just as a coping mechanism but as a calling. It became clear to me that this was what I was meant to do—not just for myself but for others, too.

Kaden: How do you view make-up as an art form? A lot of people still see it as something trivial or surface-level.

Sabu Suzuki: I completely disagree with that mindset. Make-up is one of the most dynamic art forms because it’s alive. Think about it: you’re working on a canvas that breathes, emotes, and changes with every passing moment. That’s what makes it so exciting—and also so challenging. You’re not just creating something to look at; you’re creating something that interacts with the world. For me, make-up is about transformation, not just in a physical sense but on an emotional and spiritual level, too. It’s about taking what’s inside and bringing it to the surface in a way that feels authentic and powerful.

“Make-up isn’t just an accessory—it’s a declaration of freedom. It’s the power to rewrite your story and embrace the beauty of becoming.” — Sabu Suzuki

Photography by Mika Kailes.

Kaden: Your work feels deeply personal. How do you navigate creating something that resonates with your own story but also connects with others?

Sabu Suzuki: That’s a balance I’m always trying to strike. My work is undeniably rooted in my personal experiences—my struggles, my identity, and even my joys. But what I’ve learned is that the more specific you get, the more universal it becomes. People see their own stories in your honesty. When I create a look, I’m not just thinking about what it means to me; I’m thinking about how someone else might interpret it. It’s like planting a seed and letting others grow their own meaning from it. That’s the beauty of art—it becomes a shared experience.

Kaden: Have you ever felt pressure to conform to certain beauty trends or standards, especially in the industry?

Sabu Suzuki: Oh, absolutely. The beauty industry is full of unspoken rules and trends that you’re “supposed” to follow. But honestly, I’ve never been interested in playing by those rules. Early in my career, I felt that pressure to create looks that were “trendy” or “marketable,” but it didn’t feel authentic to me. I realized I’d rather be known for doing something unique—even if it’s polarizing—than for creating work that looks like everyone else’s. The way I see it, trends come and go, but authenticity lasts forever.

Photography by Mika Kailes.

Kaden: What inspires you when you’re working on a new look or concept? Do you draw from specific sources?

Sabu Suzuki: Inspiration is everywhere if you’re open to it. I get ideas from the most random things—like the way light hits a cracked mirror or the texture of peeling paint on a wall. Music plays a huge role, too. Sometimes a single song can inspire an entire look. And of course, people inspire me—how they move, how they express themselves, how they carry their stories in their faces. I think the most exciting part of being an artist is that you never run out of things to be inspired by. The world is a giant mood board if you pay attention.

Kaden: What advice would you give to someone who’s just starting out as a make-up artist but feels overwhelmed by the competition?

Sabu Suzuki: First of all, it’s okay to feel overwhelmed—that’s normal. But don’t let it paralyze you. The best advice I can give is to focus on finding your own voice. It’s tempting to look at what others are doing and try to emulate that, but the only way to stand out is to be true to yourself. Experiment, make mistakes, and don’t be afraid to create something that feels “wrong” by industry standards. Some of the most groundbreaking work comes from people who dared to do things differently. And remember, your journey is yours alone—don’t compare your chapter one to someone else’s chapter ten.

Photography by Mika Kailes.

As our conversation winds down, it’s clear that Sabu Suzuki is not just a make-up artist—he’s a visionary. His work challenges conventional ideas about beauty, art, and identity, inviting us to see make-up as a tool for empowerment and self-expression. Through his bold creations, he encourages us to embrace imperfection and celebrate individuality.

Sabu’s journey is a reminder that art can emerge from the most unexpected places. Whether it’s inspired by a moment of personal struggle or the mundane patterns of everyday life, his work proves that beauty is everywhere if you’re willing to look for it. His collaboration with Mika Kailes is a shining example of how make-up can transcend its traditional boundaries, becoming a medium for storytelling and connection.

But perhaps the most profound takeaway from Sabu’s story is his unwavering belief in the power of choice. “Make-up,” he says, “is not about conforming to someone else’s standards. It’s about creating your own rules and living by them. It’s about taking control of your narrative and saying, ‘This is who I am.’”