Jean Paul Gaultier: Do What you believe in
“Do what you believe in ”
Jean Paul Gaultier at the age of 70 had the most inspirational energy and a bright light at the Vogue: Change Makers event. He established his brand in 1976 and was known as the ‘Enfant terrible’ – known for his unconventional, eccentric, scandalous, provocative and exuberant designs and shows.
Jean Paul Gaultier on constantly learning while working
I remember in 1980s and 90s during my childhood and youth years, I was mesmerized with JPGs’ shows – they were definitely boundary breaking and eye opening. Years later listening to him live was even more mesmerizing. I was expecting someone who might possibly be a bit cold and a bit diva with some ego given his enormous success for decades. Yet the legend Jean Paul Gaultier on stage was the opposite, he was vibrating incredible positive energy, a bright aura around him and was full of life with a humble and embracing warmness. I wanted to keep listening to him for hours, once again he had hypnotized me – and solo on stage even without the extravagant shows.
His presence definitely filled up the Athens Concert Hall – Megaron, with a huge smile on our faces.
Close to my heart, It was great to hear that his inspiration to become a designer at a young age was from Cinema – the movie ‘Falbalas’ and the scene in which there was a fashion show. After seeing that scene, he said…. I want to do that! He shared that he believes both Cinema and Fashion are driven from life all around us.
Jean Paul Gaultier on his inspiration to go into fashion was from the film: ‘Falbalas’
“Like Cinema, Fashion is a reflection of life that is happening around us….it is in everything – its life.”
Given that he comes from a generation of flea markets, the loved finding unique pieces and creating with them. Hippies inspired him because they seemed Unisex.
Some of the artists inspired him throughout his life were David Bowie, Pedro Almodovar, Luc Besson, Madonna, Kylie Minogue, Mylene Farmer, Regine Chopinot, and Angelin Preljoocaj.
Always keeping true to his values: Inclusiveness, Irreverence, Humor – and main secret to his success – Liberty!
Even before some of these concepts became a ‘hot topic’ he was advocating for them in 1980s leading the way thru his designs and shows – and even solely by his presence.
His Fashion Freak show will go on world tour, that will continue to keep opening our minds. He is always going to be a legend, and an inspirational leader in Fashion and Pop Culture.
Fashion Freak Show
His advice at the end: “I can not give you advice…I can never know what you are living thru…it is different generations, different times…most important thing is: Be in life and You do what you believe in”
So grateful to have had the chance to listen to him live.
Thank you Jean Paul Gaultier.