Bottega Veneta has unveiled a new photography series by acclaimed photographer Carrie Mae Weems, featuring American rapper A$AP Rocky as their latest brand ambassador.
Entitled “Portraits of Fatherhood”, commissioned by creative director Matthieu Blazy, the series comprises six intimate images released on Father’s Day in the US. These photographs depict A$AP Rocky in a domestic setting with his two young sons, RZA and Riot Rose.
In these tender portraits, the rapper reflects on fatherhood, describing it as a balancing act between family life and his career. Weems, known for her groundbreaking work like the Kitchen Table Series and Family Pictures and Stories (1981-1982), aimed to portray an authentic representation of the Black family through this collaboration.
In an interview with T Australia, Weems discussed her approach to the project and the importance of representation: “We had meaningful conversations that inspired my entire approach. It was crucial to listen and collaborate, capturing Rocky’s vision alongside mine.”
Addressing the significance of the collaboration within the luxury and art spheres, Weems highlighted the rarity of positive representations of Black men with their children in commercial and fashion contexts. She praised A$AP Rocky’s efforts to leverage his platform with Bottega Veneta to make a statement about fatherhood and family, emphasizing its uniqueness and importance.
Reflecting on her collaboration with Bottega Veneta, Weems shared insights into the creative process and her connection with Matthieu Blazy: “Matthieu had studied my work, and we connected over themes of authenticity and depth. Rocky’s admiration for the Kitchen Table Series resonated with him, driving our shared commitment to portraying meaningful narratives.”
Overall, the collaboration stands as a testament to the evolving intersection of art and luxury, with Weems and A$AP Rocky bringing depth and authenticity to the portrayal of fatherhood in a way that resonates beyond traditional fashion imagery.