Several months ago we featured the latest graphic t-shirt collection by independent UK label Exit Left Apparel (ELA). With each collection featuring an array of designs contributed by different artists, the brand’s latest collaboration is with well-known rapper Hal Williams, aka ‘Pyramid Vritra’ from Odd Future and Nobody Really Knows. This latest partnership comes after five months of secret talks and designs, making the new release a welcome surprise for all ELA and hip-hop fans.
Williams is known for his unique blend of psychedelic hip-hop beats and obscure jazz riffs. However, in addition to his musical talent the artist also designs his own album art, and can now lay claim to being a fashion designer with the creation of the Exit Left Apparel x Hal Williams T-Shirt.
Elaborating on Williams’ existing artwork, which tends to follow a symbolic theme, the graphic utilised for the design consists of many shapes and colours, each with hidden meanings. Encompassing the ELA logo in the centre of the design is an Ouroboros, a symbol that often represents cyclicality – in this case, it relates to the cyclical nature of fashion and the cyclical nature of music and where they come together.
This one off tee has been released in both black and white colour ways. Working within monochrome base tones has allowed the designers to utilise a broad colour palette, with the light blue pigment fading to an off white towards the centre of the illustration.
The first copies of the t-shirt have been sent to an exclusive group of musicians working in the American hip-hop industry. The likes of Mac Miller, Mike G and other members of Odd Future and NRK have all been sent copies – therefore expect to see this ELA design making appearances at the last of this summer’s festivals and gigs.
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