ooGee Australia and renowned Sydney-based artist Timothy Johnston have joined forces to create their latest Art Series collection.
The range draws inspiration from Australia’s diverse landscapes to celebrate the beauty of nature, art and coexistence.
“ooGee has always been about a reflection of the Australian environment, its landscape, its seascape—from bush, beach and beyond,” explains founder, Peter Walcott.
“We were looking to appoint powerful ambassador to move the brand forward and position it for future export opportunities. Timothy Johnston ticked the boxes for us due to both his extraordinary abstract seascape artwork and his passion for the conservation of the oceans.
“TJ’s connection with ooGee has opened new creative opportunities with the range as well as providing a meaningful vehicle to support of the environment.”
Indeed, the collection supports Taronga’s reef recovery program. Johnston is a member of Taronga’s fundraising board and there was a natural synergy to support the initiative.
“Just as sun protection is critical to us all, UV rays damage coral life and the amazing work Taronga does needs to be recognised. A portion of every sale goes towards Taronga’s reef recovery program,” adds Walcott.
Slowly but surely Australians are recognising that UPF50+ headwear is a vital part of an effective sun-protection regime.
“All of the TJSH x ooGee hats rate UPF50+ and Australians love to buy Australian-made product. We have also seen a wonderful response from overseas visitors to Australia—loving the creative connection to an Aussie artist and being able to take a piece of Australia with them.”
Apart from ooGee being an Australian-made brand, the TJSH Art Series elevates captures elements of Johnston’s soaring seascapes in the hat designs themselves whether it be a fine slice from an artwork printed on a leather strap, a pleated fabric headband or even subtle coloured saddle stitches representing the colour themes from his art.
“Art is in everything for me,” says Johnston.
“This was a chance to create another version of what I do as wearable art. It has substance because it stands for something. Marrying the imagery of places I’ve painted with something wearable inspired by their beauty creates a circular moment. A positive way to give back to nature.”
