Introducing Henry Kramer!

Salvage Renaissance partnered with Housing Works to upcycle 100 pieces to sell. Through this collaboration, Salvage Renaissance commissioned 6 bespoke artists to upcycle these pieces in their unique expression and style. We talked with one of the artists, Henry Kramer, about their experience, where they get their inspiration from, and the challenges they face when deciding how they want to design a piece. 


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I have done art my entire life but I studied fine art in college. I moved to New York 3 years ago,  established myself, and started printing on clothes 2 years ago. I took a look at the materials that were around me, and I worked at an art store at the time, where I saw how to use and incorporate stencils and saved hardware that was being thrown away. Upcycling and resourcefulness are key to my art, as sometimes I even make stencils out of materials lying around, like a cardboard popcorn box. 


When I was looking at the pieces I would be working on, I looked at the different patterns I’ve created. I have about 6 established patterns now, and I decided that all of the Housing Works collection would incorporate three of those. Some of them were going to be camouflage, some of them were going to be symmetrical, and some of them were going to be one-over pieces. 


The piece I was most excited to upcycle was the long white slip dress. The paint took to the fabric so nicely, which in my experience is always hit or miss. I love the different textures, and with each drop of paint, there are pixels. If you were to look at it under a microscope, you would see a galaxy of color, which is what I love about this piece. 


The piece that was the most challenging to work on was the camo hoodie with cutout fabric. So, I initially wasn’t sure what to do—glue everything down and then paint it or try something different. Once I put the stencil down, everything came together. I paired the camo with a bright orange, as bright orange is often used with camo or hunting gear to allow other people to see you without animals seeing you. 


One of my favorite pieces to style is the black vest with green paint stenciled over it. You can wear something underneath, or not if that’s you’re style. I would pair it with long grey trousers that have pleats and a wide leg. 


What does it mean to work with Housing Works? Working with Housing Works is a great opportunity. I like to reuse things, I like to give everything a second life and Housing Works is a place that does that, and I am very thankful for the opportunity. 


Those looking to follow Henry’s work can check out their website and Instagram.

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