-WEDNESDAY WINDOWS-

Hermes, Madison Ave and 62nd St. 

Hermes' Upper East Side store windows feature an abstract twist on symmetry and shapes behind a display of Thomas Jefferson's Paris Walks. The sculptures mimic bots ready for battle, standing with strength on a firm foundation.The window concept by Fotis Evans is inspired by an original illustrated edition of the book from Arion Press and amplifies his interpretation of classical furnishings. 

Hermes,  Madison Avenue

After extensive research on Thomas Jefferson, Evans developed the sculptural work around Jefferson's walks. Using period-appropriate materials resembling gold, mahogany and porcelain marble, Evans applied his take on major innovations of the Jefferson era (i.e. air ballon, telescope, spinning jenny) and paired them with Michael Kenna's photographs. In an interview with *Wallpaper [source], Evans explains, "In the end, the idea was to create some kind of memory, like a sculptural collage.... What I did was desconstruct all the scenes and furniture I found through my research and seperate all the materials and recreate a memory that combines the innovations of that time." Though initially surprised at the abstract, yet structured stylistic approach, I can see the correlation between the artist's vision and the brand, which peddles products with a very structured, elegant and luxurious feel. 

Hermes, Madison Avenue

For 5 years between 1784 and 1789, Jefferson served as US Minister in Paris. He was known for his love of walking the city both for exercise and the sights. In 2011, photographer Michael Kenna retraced Jefferson's footsteps in Paris and took a series of 46 black and white photographs. A few key photos are displayed alongside Evans' sculptures--which one suits your fancy?

Hermes, Madison Avenue