Joseph Ford’s conceptual photography series dives into the mesmerizing world of camouflage fashion, blurring the lines between attire and environment. Collaborating with the skilled knitter, Nina Dodd, Ford spent five years crafting a visually intriguing collection of knitwear that seamlessly merges with its surroundings. Each photograph captures not just the intricacy of the knitting but also the harmony between the model and the backdrop, challenging perceptions of visibility and identity. The idea sprouted from a seemingly ordinary yet fascinating occurrence — a sweater knit with the same pattern as Brighton bus seat covers. This sparked a creative journey that led to a series of playful and thought-provoking images, where the wearer’s presence evolves into an extension of the environment.
The vibrant collection showcases more than just sartorial ingenuity; it is a celebration of art meeting reality in unexpected places. The audience is invited to engage in a visual exploration, peeling back layers to find the intricate balance between concealment and revelation. The camouflaged jumpers serve as commentary on the art of blending in while remaining distinct, an irony that is both humorous and profound. By creating garments that disappear into everyday sceneries, Joseph Ford not only demonstrates craftsmanship but also invites us to consider the daily facades individuals wear, blurring the boundaries between fashion, art, and philosophy.
I spent 5 years creating these images with custom clothes knitted by an amazing knitter, Nina Dodd. The project began when she showed me a sweater based on the seat covers of Brighton buses. This seemed too good an opportunity to miss, so we found an eye-catching model and photographed him on a bus. I was so pleased with the result that I came up with more ideas for camouflaged jumpers, and the series developed.
Joseph Ford
More info: Website, Instagram.
