Phoebe Philo: Fucking Beautiful

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Phoebe Philo for AnOther Magazine A/W02Photography by Martina Hoogland Ivanow

AnOther recalls the iconic designer's ode to Tim Noble and Sue Webster

"Tim Noble and Sue Webster's art is just electric, literally, considering it's a neon light piece. The first piece I saw was 'Wow', which looks like it belongs in a fairground. This piece, Fucking Beautiful, makes sense to me. It says what it says, which is obviously so brash, but is still so beautiful. The contradiction of saying 'fucking beautiful' in the shape of a heart makes me laugh, it's like they're taking the piss out of themselves. Tim and Sue are partners, who come up with their ideas through their relationship. It's very personal. I respect the fact that they seem to show so much of themselves and their love for each other in their work, which is what makes it so convincing. There is a lot of fantasy involved when you look at their stuff and it makes you think about things that are not there – that is what's interesting about it. Their work is unforgettable and when I first saw it I saw something of myself in it. That's such a rare feeling. It's fucking beautiful."

"Their work is unforgettable and when I first saw it I saw something of myself in it" – Phoebe Philo

In April 2001, Phoebe Philo was the subtle but obvious choice as successor to the helm of French fashion house, Chloe. Paris born Philo graduated from Central Saint Martins in 1996 and a year later became design assistant to fellow Saint Martins student and friend, Stella McCartney. She has been credited for contributing to the transformation of Chloe, taking the traditionally romantic fashion house and infusing it with individuality and pure street energy. Under Philo's direction the house is introducing new merchandise which stays true to the essence of Chloe's history while moving with the times.

This feature originally ran in the Autumn/Winter 2002 issue of AnOther Magazine.