The Live Issue Launch Night

On Wednesday night I went to the launch of The Live Issue both to support my friends Susie and Katie and to host the Sketchbook live blogging area.

The Live Issue concept was the brainchild of Katie Burkes and Susie O'Brien, two final year students at University for the Creative Arts, Epsom. The pair, both on my course, studying Fashion Promotion & Imaging, decided to collaborate with eachother, in order to put their skills in photography, marketing and PR to the test. They decided to take the idea of a traditional magazine and turn it on its head, creating a live installation, ‘The Live Issue’. Rather than turning the pages of a printed magazine or clicking the next button on an e-zine, guests were invited to step into The Future Gallery and physically walk through the issue.

Sketchbook was there holding live interviews with the participants and other guests we met, with illustrator Gabriela Mot working on quick sketches of the interviewees and photographer Sarolta Marton documenting the night on her camera. All in all, we had a great time and met some really interesting people, we were really chuffed to be involved.

A pre-recorded interview by editors Katie and Susie with unsung hero Pam Hogg was screened in its own room, which had been transformed into an intimate space with a boutique vibe. Live models represented a live and moving fashion photograph. Pam was there inviting people in and chatting to them whilst they looked around.

The night also launched Bitching and Junkfood’s debut collection, with a fashion film in collaboration with Gabriel Gettman. Princess Julia, i-D’s music editor hit the decks and Izzy Electric also played a live set, showcasing a sound installation in collaboration with designer Rachel Friere, who’s collection, displayed on mannequins in the event area was a big hit.

Advertising was even key, with a photocopier available for people to take pictures of themselves, their items, in the style of an unseen Commes Des Garcons ad. Illustrator Nikki  Farquharson and print designer Marie Hill were creating live art. Also on display was a Don't Panic illustration exhibition, with the work of Luke Embden, the winner of the competition, taking pride of place. With the drinks flowing and the music pumping, the night was a success, with bouncers keeping people waiting outside because the place was so crowded. 

The girls should be very pleased with themselves and I look forward to the launch of the second Live Issue in the future.

www.theliveissue.co.uk 

Photography by Sarolta Marton