The Artist – Behind The Culture
Utagawa Kuniyoshi + Maharishi – Inspired by Culture
Utagawa Kuniyoshi
An underdog artist pits monsters vs. superheroes
“Takiyasha the Witch and the Skeleton Spectre’ by Utagawa Kuniyoshi
Maharishi
“The styles and artworks featured in the campaign are unified by their technicality.
The Kuniyoshi Skeleton and Cyber Skeleton artworks were inspired by the woodblock triptych ‘Takiyasha the Witch and the Skeleton Spectre’ by Japanese Ukiyo-e master, Utagawa Kuniyoshi. In the original artwork, the Japanese princess Takiyasha recites a spell written on a scroll, summoning a giant skeleton. The print was finished around 1844 and is updated by Maharishi through the modernised cyber skeleton in place of the anatomical version.
Also highlighted in the campaign are styles bearing the DPM: Reflective Sparse Bonsai – an updated take on Maharishi’s signature DPM: Bonsai Forest. Images are shot using sparse lighting, with the camouflage pattern mirrored by the backdrop of the tunnel’s fans and the shadows they cast.
Other styles represent the success of Maharishi’s own engineering within garment design. Gortessa waterproof fleeces, primaloft-insulated padded jackets, and lightweight, waterproof storm parkas all exemplify the label’s extensive research into highly functional yet eco-conscious materials.“
A Lifetime Repair Service Promises Sustainability and Community Alignment
“Maharishi was founded with the vision to design and produce with environmental consideration. Longevity is fundamental to this intention, therefore we offer a free lifetime repair service for all Maharishi garments.
Thoughts…
After my recent trip to Oaxaca, I saw so many connections to Japanese artists that have obviously got some connection to Mexico, somehow? I’ll need to go down a rabbit hole in the future to figure this one out… If anyone out there knows the connection I would love to hear the story behind this.
If you know me, you’ll know I’m a bit obsessed with the brand Maharishi. I’ve always been drawn to them by an interest in the artwork and design that goes into their clothing and creative. Maha was one of the first brands that I felt I resonated with through their messaging and values. They always seemed to be ahead of the trends and they were one of the first brands I saw making statements about the materials they use and production process into their marketing. When it comes to sustainability, they found a way to utilise hardy natural and synthetic materials and military designs, up-cycling garms for the modern age, taking technology, fashion and art and carefully utilising them to enhance designs that are built to last and ultimately, look pretty sick.
Commitment to Community & Sustainability
When I noticed Maha announced they would be offering free lifetime repairs I loved it, partly because of my jackets needs repairing but also because it just proves they care. When brands make moves like this it shows their commitment to their community who choose to invest in their brand and support the company and it’s people to keep creating innovative designs and clothing that make people think about what they’re wearing and feel good.
I got thinking about Maha’s designs after visiting Roma Norte in Mexico City and Oaxaca for close friends wedding, it was truly inspiring and eye opening. I never understood the buzz but Mexico is cool and I now understand Mezcal.
Seeing a community put so much collective energy into maintaining history, culture and quality gets you thinking… Since learning more about the power of super plants and visiting Oaxaca I have a deeper understanding as to why some drinks or food just give you such magical memories, genuinely giving you positive energy and make you feel something!
Investing in community, understanding how cultures are connected and seeing how the Zapotec and Mixtecos people share stories by celebrating heritage and death through art, music and the natural food they drink, eat or smoke got me thinking…
Closing the loop, this experience helped me to connect the dots as to why Zeel Supertea resonated with me.
Looking at how brands, artists and cultures that I’ve resonated with have been able to succeed by staying true to their core values is truly incredible. Seeing how we can learn from their success through dedication can help us to make the most of the incredible opportunities that lie ahead of us.
“Our core objective is for ZEEL SUPERTEA to spread joy and wellness to those who drink them, and we sincerely hope you enjoy them as much as we enjoyed creating them!
We care about what we consume and how it impacts our long-term wellness, so we wanted to intersect our passion for wellness and taste and bring to the market a truly refreshing and delicious range of non-alcoholic beverages with ingredients that are good for your health.”
