Raised by Danger Designs
Designer Raised by Danger bringing the latest fashion from LA to Scotland
In the realm where fashion transcends mere garments and transforms into fantastical worlds, Raised by Danger Designs emerges as a captivating force. With a distinct fusion of artistry and fashion, this unique brand takes center stage, weaving tales that mesmerize the beholder. In an exclusive interview, we delve into the fascinating journey of the visionary behind Raised by Danger Designs, exploring the origins of their fashion career and the transformative power of their art.
Could you share with us the fascinating story of how your fashion career first began?
Well, I’ve always been an artist first and foremost; I was taking art classes as a child before I knew how to read! I developed my love for fashion when I began to enter my teen years. I devoured just about every fashion magazine I could get my hands on, and used to watch various fashion shows. That led me to the idea to start combining those two passions of mine. In my early 20s I started customising clothes with my art, but it took a lot longer before I realised the potential of starting my own brand the way I have now. The Internet and sublimation printing technology really changed how artists like me could work and use our art in new ways. I also used the knowledge I gained as a freelance model for over a decade; both from working with designers, as well as photographers etc. It means today I know how to tackle all aspects, from designing a collection to creative directing a shoot. Everything I design has a clear concept to me in my mind - it’s a bit like creating a new fantasy world each time to tell the audience a story!
We’re curious to know about your very first artwork. What was the inspiration behind it, and how does it hold significance in your artistic journey?
It’s funny, if I count the art I created as a child, my artistic expression has kind of come full circle. I was always creating art based on nature, or imaginary mythical beasts like dragons; I’ve found a lot of my patterns incorporate the same sort of imagery, except in a much more sophisticated style of course! It’s a good laugh when my mom finds my old artwork and sends me pictures comparing it to what I do now. I’ve been on this earth long enough to have a very defined sense of self, and its nice to tap back into that purer sense of identity we tend to have as kids before it gets muddled with growing up. I like to think it is a part of why people like to connect with my work.
Over the years, how has your work evolved and transformed? Can you walk us through the key milestones or shifts in your artistic style?
Sure! A lot of the changes have been due to improving technical skills or trying new mediums. I would say the greatest years of development were actually in high school, as I had an incredible art teacher who really pushed us to learn the basics in both drawing and painting (thank you, Mr. Chow!) It was where I got my whole artistic foundation. It was in his classes that I first learned to paint, with oils first, which had a big impact on my style. Later on, I would take an intro to acrylics class where I tried to learn to paint in a similar fashion. Of course, the medium is completely different and requires different techniques. Acrylic paints tend to have a more strong color, but less of the classic oil paint glow. It was useful for creating striking pattern imagery however. After that I taught myself the basics of digital painting, but went back to painting in person after a while. I appreciated the boldness that I could get digitally, but felt it too simplistic for my tastes, and missed some of the “soul” that you get painting the old school way. It means much more work for me now as a designer, but I think it’s worth it! I like that people can see the brush strokes I’ve done by hand. Lately, I’ve actually gone back to oils, by first painting an acrylic base painting, and finishing with layers in oil. I think it’s getting the best of both worlds, and adds even more life to my work. With the recent rise in AI generated art, I am especially grateful to have gone back to painting; I think it is even more important than ever to have something in a personal style with soul as far as art is considered. I am happy to have done so much experimental work though, as being proficient in digital work is still certainly useful! There are times when I need to make decisions as an artist, and others when I need to make decisions as a designer, so all those skills really come together.
Within the context of this specific editorial, what aspects do you find most captivating or enjoyable?
It is always a thrill to be creating the world that my designs get to exist in. Even with a lifestyle shoot, it’s a bit like creating a persona and story for the viewer. Who is the model, and what are they up to, what are they like? I like creating a character who has an air of being dangerous (I did name my brand Raised by Danger after all!)
Are there any fellow artists or collaborators you admire and would love to work with in the future? If so, who are they and what attracts you to their work?
Absolutely! I’ve actually collaborated with an artist friend of mine already. We worked together to create an art print depicting my fashion line as an outfit for a paper doll illustration. It felt like a really fun and new take on traditional fashion illustration. Laura Laine is one of my favorite artists, who creates stunning fashion illustration work. I discovered her work as a teenager, and it was extra neat discovering she was Finnish as I am half-Finnish myself. Ive been a fan of hers for about 15 years now. It would be one of my greatest dreams to have one of my designs illustrated by her.
Milan is often considered a hub of fashion and creativity. Have you had the chance to visit this vibrant city, and if so, what impressions did it leave on you?
I actually have had the chance to visit, although it was some years ago! It was a vacation my partner and I took in between moving from Dakar, Senegal to Dublin, Ireland. I believe it was the year the city hosted the World Expo, as we got to go experience that during our stay. In true fashionista style, I hiked all the way up to the roof of the Duomo in super high platforms. My family made fun of my when they found out; you’ve got to have your loved ones keep you humble afterall. It was a fantastic trip though, and my husband and I quickly learned the quick way to pronounce bruschetta thanks to the little restaurant we went to almost everyday. There was so much art and fashion (and food) on that trip, I would love to come visit again one day.
On a personal note, do you have a particular country that holds a special place in your heart? We’d love to hear about the reasons behind your fondness for it.
I’ve actually lived in quite a few countries, and they all have a special place in my heart for the experiences I had when living there. I grew up in Tokyo, spending my most prominent childhood years there. It feels like a rather magical time in my life looking back now. I also spent early years of my life in Tanzania, and as mentioned before, I lived in Senegal as an adult. Living and experiencing a culture so different is definitely a great experience to have, I feel like I learned a lot and have a richer life because of that time. Finland and California are of course dear to me too, as that is where my family is from. And I currently live in Glasgow, Scotland! I adore my new chosen home, I’ve been here two years now; everyone always asks why I would have left California for here, but I love it. The city is so full of friendly, creative people, there is always something to do. You can enjoy the delights of city life, or just as easily a relaxing day in one of the many parks, and the beauty of Scotland’s nature is a short train trip away. It may rain a lot, but it makes you appreciate the sunshine that much more.
Love and fame are often perceived as conflicting aspirations. In your own journey, which holds greater importance to you and why?
Love does, hands down! It is my love for making art and fashion that drives me, and the love I have for everyone supporting me on this journey. This is an easy question! I actually wouldn’t care for fame at all on a personal level, and only consider it for helping my brand grow to let me keep doing what I love the most.
Considering your relationship with fashion, how would you describe your connection to this realm, and do you have a favorite style or aesthetic that resonates with you?
I definitely have a love for really editorial fashion. One of my favorite things when creating new designs is then planning the photoshoots to go with them. I spend a lot of time getting props together and getting the styling just right. One of my friends is an incredible makeup artist, so we try to collaborate as often as we can. We first met working on a creative editorial, and found we spoke the “same language”. When I first started, I would build these incredibly ornate headdresses for shoots - I need to try to do that again! It’s the expression of an utterly fantastical world that I love so much, and why I love fashion. It’s the time to, as they say, go big or go home!
As an exclusive treat for our readers, would you be willing to share a secret or behind-the-scenes tidbit that hasn’t been revealed before?
After shooting this editorial, I went to the Warhammer Fest going on haha! When I’m not engulfed in art and fashion, I like to pursue my more nerdy interests. I know what I like at this point in my life, and don’t feel like I need to be kept in any boxes.
As far as a juicy tidbit about future shoots, I’m planning on bringing my pet Julius as a co-model for my next shoot. It will take finding the right model though, because he is a bright orange, 7ft python! “
Fashion Designer: Raised By Danger
IG: raisedbydanger
Photographer: Nate Cleary
IG: nate_cleary
FB: https://www.facebook.com/@photographybynatecleary
WB: http://@nate_cleary
Female Model: Saija Salminiitty Cleary
IG: saint_danger
