BEHIND THE LENS.. GUY WEST
, by Stephen Dallimore, 5 min reading time
In the ever-evolving landscape of fashion and music, the relationship of the two art forms is undeniable. Just as a riff or melody can inspire a new generation, a striking visual alethic can redefine how we relate to the sound.
It’s this pulse of creativity that drives the world of Jeffery West, a brand synonymous with bold design and unyielding craftsmanship in men’s and woman’s footwear.
We caught up with Guy West, the co-founder and creative force behind our favourite shoe brand, Jeffery West. From memorable first gigs to the artist that inspire his collections, Guy shares insights into how music intricately weaves into the fabric of his designs. Since 1987 Jeffery West has stood at the forefront of men’s footwear and accessories and continues to make waves with its distinctive shoes and accessories, available in their flagships stores across the UK and shipping worldwide.
Music plays are bit part of the DNA of Jeffery West, what are some of your influences that have come out in your designs?
Having grown up in the UK during the seventies and eighties, many of my influences came from that melting pot of British music and fashion subcultures, Glam, Disco, Punk, Funk, Soul, The Mod Revival, Goth, New Romantic, New Wave and Indie Rock and Roll.
Other major influence came from the Mavericks of Art, Music, Theatre and Film. Particularly the Hellraisers, Richard Harris, Peter O’Toole, Oliver Reed, Richard Burton, and flamboyant individuals from the music industry like Keith Moon, Bryan Ferry, Viv Stanshall.
What was the first stand out concert for you?
My first really memorable gig was around the age of 12 when my father took me to see George Melly. Even before he started playing I think he had been at the bar for a couple of hours. Whilst playing he proceeded to get royally pissed, ended up standing on his head on a dining table and singing a filthy sea shanty. I think from that day on I was fascinated by these nonconformist characters from the arts and music business.
Who are some of your favourite, music photographers?
I also have a passion for the 1960’s photographers like Bailey and O’Neill, and more contemporary lensmen such as David LaChapelle and Tim Walker.
What was the last record you played?
The last album I listened to was on the recent bank holiday Monday evening {along with several glasses of a fine Rioja!}, Grace Jones ‘Slave to the Rhythm’ Miss Jones and Trevor Horn’s absolute masterpiece!
What's your favourite photograph Behind The Gallery & Why?
There are so many brilliant photographs from Behind The Gallery it’s impossible to choose just one.
I love Neil Zlozower’s ‘Led Zeppelin Live 1975’, I think this shot really captures Robert Plant and Jimmy Page in their absolute pomp.
Charles Moriarty‘s ‘The Ritz Tower’ shows the playfulness and humour of Amy Winehouse, also Chris Cuffaro’s ‘Michael Hutchence Half Portrait’, I always found the story of Michael and Paula Yates heart-breaking, and this picture shows his melancholy perfectly.
Be sure to check out the Jeffery West collections here
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