Founder & designer — Starving Artists Fund

Starving Artist Funds' authentic and non-binary perspective has propelled its name onto the New Zealand fashion scene. The ethically conscious, cult brand is the creation of designer Natasha Ovely. Ovely's background in fine arts, sculpture and multicultural exposure adds to the richness of her designs. Starving Artists Fund considers the impact that "radical inclusivity" can have in our times. Get to know the wonderful Natasha in our Q&A below.

I think people want to know your story. Tell us a bit about your background prior to launching your label?

After graduating from Elam School of Fine Arts where I specialised in Sculpture, I dabbled in photojournalism and did a few internships in Shanghai and London. I was hired by the publishing company I interned with in London, before moving to Berlin and later Munich. My apartment started swiftly filling up with garments I had taught myself to sew, which is when I got in touch with Janey from NZFW. I moved back to Auckland last year, leading up to my first show to launch the brand and finally get my fashion career off the ground.

Wow, that sounds like an incredible adventure. Why fashion and designing?

I have always been strongly drawn to fashion design but had a certain reluctance to pursue it. I’m sure that many people with an immigrant background can relate to the pressure of pursuing something either socially or financially viable to validate the sacrifices of their parents. I felt like pursuing a creative field was a privilege and I had to work through and find a way to create a moral code that fuelled my pursuit. Simply making pretty clothes wouldn't have fulfilled me.

“I’m sure that many people with an immigrant background can relate to the pressure of pursuing something either socially or financially viable to validate the sacrifices of their parents. I felt like pursuing a creative field was a privilege and I had to work through and find a way to create a moral code that fuelled my pursuit. Simply making pretty clothes wouldn’t have fulfilled me.”

You mentioned you had a nomadic childhood. Are you able to share a little more? I am so intrigued!

Sure! I was born in Mumbai and moved to Saudi Arabia as a child, followed by Dubai and moved to NZ on my own when I was 13 to attend boarding school in Havelock North. We later moved back to Dubai and then to Auckland, where I finished my final years of high school and University. Since then I've kept the momentum going by travelling and living in various cities across Europe.

You are a true global baby. So, what are you working on lately?

A line of custom prints I’ve had on the back burner for a few years now for a limited release. I’m also looking into organising more public events in the coming year.

We can’t wait to see. What are your thoughts on art/design in the digital age?

It’s a double-edged sword. Technology has opened up a massive avenue of possibilities for creatives, setting a new challenge which is extremely exciting. On the other hand, it is somewhat troubling that social media has become a measure of worth. To the extent where, as a brand, your opportunities for sponsorship and stockists are dictated by your number of followers.

Is it sometimes challenging to listen to your instincts in an increasingly chaotic industry?

No. I make it a top priority to check in with myself at regular intervals and examine my vision for the brand. I made a decision this year not to weigh myself down with the burden of commercial viability for this collection. I wanted to be free to create what I am moved to, without having to compromise on originality at this young stage.

Your dream collaboration

If I had to compile a dream team at this stage, it would be Charles Jeffrey, Mowalola, SZA, Anish Kapoor and United Nude. Can you imagine? Locally, a collab with Deadly Ponies or Quim jewellery could be pretty exciting.

And finally, what’s next for the label

My main focus in 2020 will be testing markets overseas and building an in-house team. Before that, I’d like to hit a few good parties and have some long naps on a beach.

Follow Natasta’s work on Instagram here

Intro and photography — Isabella Griffiths
Interview — Zeenat Wilkinson
Film sponsored by Black and White Box. Thank you!

Natasha Ovely