HOUSE OF THE VERY

DARK FOREST

autumn / winter 2020

In his science fiction novel “The Dark Forest”, Chinese writer Cixin Liu offers a nihilistic answer to a classic problem in science: Why have we so far not seen any signs of alien life when statistically the universe should be full of alien civilizations?

“The universe is a dark forest. Every civilization is an armed hunter stalking through the trees like a ghost, gently pushing aside branches that block the path and trying to tread without sound. Even breathing is done with care. The hunter has to be careful, because everywhere in the forest are stealthy hunters like him. If he finds other life — another hunter, an angel or a demon, a delicate infant or a tottering old man, a fairy or a demigod — there’s only one thing he can do: open fire and eliminate them. In this forest, hell is other people. An eternal threat that any life that exposes its own existence will be swiftly wiped out. This is the picture of cosmic civilization. It’s the explanation for the Fermi Paradox.”

Liu Cixin, “The Dark Forest” (黑暗森林 2008; translated by Joel Martinsen 2015)

The disturbing, dark and abundantly fantastic atmosphere of Liu Cixins apocalyptic alien invasion space epic has set the tone for this winter’s collection.

Colors of fabrics combine the vast darkness of forest and space with the neon marks used by foresters to single out trees for cutting or mark paths for hiking. Material choice offers a variety of sensual textures: water repellent technical surface, soft mohair and merino wool, casual cotton denim and corduroy.

Fusing signature traits of the HOUSE OF THE VERY universe the looks combine eco and techno, sporty and high street tailored into relaxed sophisticated street style silhouettes.

In cooperation with artist and curator Jakob Lena Knebl two hand tufted vests have been created. Their intense coloring and graphic structures are inspired by Ewald Kröners tapestry works from the 1970s.

Staged in international galleries and museums, Jakob Lena Knebls multimedia installations called “desirerooms” by the artist explore how identities are co-constructed through art and design.

HOUSE OF THE VERY has also cooperated with Jakob Lena Knebl for 15^th Biennale in Lyon.