First of all, Martina, why did you choose film to visualise your SS13 collection?
I always do film, it’s quite nice to put something onto the Internet and it’s the first time I’m using models anywhere so it’s good to do film and show the garments and models together. I don’t really work with concepts – I’m quite tactile and all about textiles. It happens quite naturally, which is a nice to way of going back to concept. It’s good to work with other people as well, see how someone else sees the collection. Film’s good and so many people see film… it’s got a broader reach than catwalk.
What is the idea of SS13?
I usually always look at my last collection as it’s always about textiles. So I take something and then carry it to the next collection; like a process. I always work with textiles first so I may have a couple of images I really like – I don’t know if you used to do this as a little girl but you have a square of paper, cut into it and unfold it to make a pattern (Kirigami) – so that’s how I started. I’ve worked a little with a laser cutter and all of the patterns come from these processes. Also I really like how pleats work, they come from a square as well. The woven technique I used last time on knitwear is just something I like to make up. I will probably work with it next season because it’s nice to try – rather than reinvent the whole look – to carry something through. I always work with leather and I always work with patchwork.
Who is the Martina Spetlova woman, who is the wearer?
I think, is it cool enough? It’s almost an extreme version of me.
So would you say the collection is designed for your alter ego?
Yes, well, I think a lot of designers design for themselves, they think: Is it going to work? I really like colour, even though I don’t wear enough. If I had lots of money and wanted to buy expensive stuff this collection is what I would want to see on myself.
I suppose if you’re channelling yourself you never run out of inspiration?
Most of the time it is instinct because you kind of get to know what works, and my shapes are quite simple anyway, as it’s all about the detail. Yes, quite a lot of it is instinct I think.
Would you work with film again?
Yes, I have done four, well, five films now.
Do you think you would ever do a catwalk show?
I would love to do a catwalk show but I still think that I would like to pursue film.
Unrelated question, but, finally, what is your favourite pizza topping?
Four Cheese.
Thank you for your time.
Watch Martina Spetlova S/S13 film here:http://www.martinaspetlova.com/Series-5-film-SS-2013.
Interview: Melissa Smith and Harald Weiler
