Eight artists customize jeans for the Lee denim exhibit

MANILA, Philippines -When curiosity strikes, the design possibilities are endless.

Style-savvy celebrities looked beyond the ordinary, took a step into the unexplored and lived out their dreams through fashion.

Lee, the iconic American jeans brand, tapped eight creative individuals to discover the many possibilities of denim fashion at the Denim DIY Craftsmanship Workshop held recently at URBN Bar.

In celebration of Lee’s 125th anniversary and in line with its “Stay Curious” campaign, the event tickled the design sensibilities of sculptor Leeroy New, designer and muralist Dee Jae Pa’este, designer Jerome Lorico, visual and tattoo artist Sarah Gaugler, pro-formula racers Michelle Bumgamer and Mark Bumgamer, and fashion blogger and accessories designer Paul Jatayna. With denim as their canvas, they customized pieces that represent their  distinct  personalities and sense of style.

Curiosity is what drives Leeroy New to create pieces that stir public imagination.

“As an artist, I get influenced and inspired by so many things not isolated to the fine arts,” said New who also dabbles in film making, product and theater design, even fashion. His Muscle Dress was featured in Lady Gaga’s “Marry the Night” album cover.

At the workshop, New painted a four-breasted creature on his jeans, while tattoo artist Sarah Gaugler used fine delicate lines to depict a woman.

“These artists created jeans they can truly call their own — reliving the spirit of denim craftsmanship, which Lee has inspired for more than 100 years,” enthused Gerald Bultot, Lee EMEA head of design.

The little scrapes, scuff, tears and frays on the denim truly reflect the personality of the wearer.

The artists’ creations will be featured at the Lee denim exhibit — during the Philippine Fashion Week — on Oct. 25, 6 p.m. at The Atrium, SM Mall of Asia, Pasay City.