In Conversation with Hyo-Isak

Step into the captivating world of Hyo-Isak, one of Manchester's most visionary minds and creative forces.

We uncover his artistic inspirations, his deep ties to Manchester and the captivating story behind his latest abstract piece, ‘Revolutionary Artisans’ an acrylic on canvas masterpiece inspired by our Autumn Winter collection.

Private White V.C.: Tell us a little bit about yourself? Where did you grow up, where are you based now?

Hyo-Isak: I was born in the Democratic Republic of Congo and later moved to the UK when I was nine years old. My formative years were spent in Bolton, where I have since built my life, including getting married and raising my family. In 2018, I established my brand HYO-ISAK, and I've been dedicated to it as the artistic director ever since. Additionally, I'm currently pursuing an MA in fashion design at Salford University.

PWVC: Can you take us through your creative process?

H-I: My creative journey typically begins with a blank canvas of thoughts and ideas waiting to be explored. I believe that the true essence of creativity blossoms when I allow myself to roam without limitations. This freedom is like a breath of fresh air, letting my thoughts flow naturally and my imagination wander freely. I draw inspiration from personal experiences, emotions, and the captivating beauty of the world around me, much like how the cycles of nature influence and inspire growth.

PWVC: What’s your favourite art gallery in the north?

H-I: I love both the Tate in Liverpool and the Manchester Art Gallery, but the most cherished gallery is within the walls of my own home. My family and I love to indulge in the art we've collected, and it warms my heart to see my son captivated by the paintings… he stares at them for ages. Perhaps, he too will grow up to be creative like me.

PWVC: What other artists do you admire? What’s your biggest inspiration?

H-I: I hold a deep admiration for the works of old masters like Kandinsky, Rembrandt, Claude Monet, Salvador Dali, and Jackson Pollock. At present, my biggest inspirations stem from my own life, my day-to-day experiences, and above all, my family. These elements fuel my creativity and propel me forward in all my endeavors.

PWVC: When you’re not painting or designing, how do you unwind?

H-I: One of my favourite ways to unwind is by hitting the gym. There's something incredibly satisfying about pushing myself physically, channeling any pent-up energy or stress into focused movements. The rhythmic cadence of boxing, akin to brushstrokes on a canvas, helps me recalibrate both my body and mind.

PWVC: Tell us the one thing that gets you up in the morning?

H-I: My son is the driving force that gets me out of bed every morning. He makes me want to do more and push harder. Every developmental milestone always amazes me and I can’t wait to watch him grow over the coming years.

PWVC: Do you have a favourite book or film?

H-I: I’m really into Sci-fi films, and my favourite films are DUNE and TENET. My wife and I share a love for anime, a genre that provides a huge source of inspiration. As for literature, James Baldwin is a favourite author of mine, though I'm currently revisiting classic works like Hamlet.

PWVC: What advice would you give to your 18-year-old self?

H-I: Patience and persistence are virtues that have grown clearer with time and experience. My 18-year-old self would find pride in the journey I've undertaken and the progress I've achieved. The future holds even more promise and success.

PWVC: How would you describe your sense of style? In fashion and work?

H-I: Unconventional. I see fashion as an ever-evolving canvas, and I've always relished challenging conventional norms. My daily outfit is often a reflection of my mood and inspiration, allowing for a unique and dynamic style.

PWVC: What is your one go-to piece in your wardrobe?

H-I: I bike a lot so my go-to is the Arc’teryx Nuclei FL Jacket which can take on any weather conditions.

PWVC: What did you think when visiting the Private White V.C. factory for the first time?

H-I: My initial reaction was one of sheer amazement that every item is crafted within the one factory. The visit highlighted the level of dedication and passion that go into every part of the manufacturing process. It really heightened my appreciation for the clothes and gave me a real insight into their history and heritage. Being from Manchester, I am really proud that we have such a factory and I hope more people get to see all that it has to offer.

PWVC: What do you find most surprising about Private White V.C.?

H-I: Learning that the factory's history dates back to 1853 was a revelation. Nearly two centuries of garment-making is a feat that commands immense respect and admiration.

PWVC: Tell us about the 1/1 Maker’s Jacket that you hand-painted at Oldham Mill?

H-I: When I looked at the collection, it was The Maker's Jacket that really resonated with me…largely due to its elegant simplicity and so I jumped at the opportunity to add my touch. I tried to imbue the jacket with the ambiance of an atelier, as though it had accompanied a painter throughout the creative process. I have to say I think the Jacket looks amazing now and the thought of someone winning the piece & seeing how they choose to style and embody it is really quite exhilarating.

PWVC: Can you take us through your creative process?

H-I: My creative journey typically begins with a blank canvas of thoughts and ideas waiting to be explored. I believe that the true essence of creativity blossoms when I allow myself to roam without limitations. This freedom is like a breath of fresh air, letting my thoughts flow naturally and my imagination wander freely. I draw inspiration from personal experiences, emotions, and the captivating beauty of the world around me, much like how the cycles of nature influence and inspire growth.

PWVC: What’s your favourite art gallery in the north?

H-I: I love both the Tate in Liverpool and the Manchester Art Gallery, but the most cherished gallery is within the walls of my own home. My family and I love to indulge in the art we've collected, and it warms my heart to see my son captivated by the paintings… he stares at them for ages. Perhaps, he too will grow up to be creative like me.

PWVC: What other artists do you admire? What’s your biggest inspiration?

H-I: I hold a deep admiration for the works of old masters like Kandinsky, Rembrandt, Claude Monet, Salvador Dali, and Jackson Pollock. At present, my biggest inspirations stem from my own life, my day-to-day experiences, and above all, my family. These elements fuel my creativity and propel me forward in all my endeavors.

PWVC: When you’re not painting or designing, how do you unwind?

H-I: One of my favourite ways to unwind is by hitting the gym. There's something incredibly satisfying about pushing myself physically, channeling any pent-up energy or stress into focused movements. The rhythmic cadence of boxing, akin to brushstrokes on a canvas, helps me recalibrate both my body and mind.

PWVC: Tell us the one thing that gets you up in the morning?

H-I: My son is the driving force that gets me out of bed every morning. He makes me want to do more and push harder. Every developmental milestone always amazes me and I can’t wait to watch him grow over the coming years.

PWVC: Do you have a favourite book or film?

H-I: I’m really into Sci-fi films, and my favourite films are DUNE and TENET. My wife and I share a love for anime, a genre that provides a huge source of inspiration. As for literature, James Baldwin is a favourite author of mine, though I'm currently revisiting classic works like Hamlet.

PWVC: What advice would you give to your 18-year-old self?

H-I: Patience and persistence are virtues that have grown clearer with time and experience. My 18-year-old self would find pride in the journey I've undertaken and the progress I've achieved. The future holds even more promise and success.

PWVC: It is such an evocative painting can you give us a bit more insight into the piece?

H-I: The painting intricately weaves the tapestry of Manchester's industrial heritage into its vibrant strokes. It captures the ceaseless energy of factories and the interplay of light, shadows, and colours against towering structures. The palette of steel grey, fiery reds, and ivory black evokes the raw power of machinery, while dynamic forms mirror the city's evolving skyline. Each brushstroke pays homage to Manchester's transformation and echoes the spirit of innovation and grit that defined an era. My palette mirrors the city's essence, immortalising its journey in hues that dance between innovation and nostalgia.

Artwork By
hyo-isak.co.uk