Bottega Veneta takes a playful detour, venturing into the vibrant realm of childhood imagination. Inspired by the iconic works of Richard Scarry, the Italian luxury house has unveiled a new capsule collection that captures the essence of the beloved author’s whimsical world.
The Creative Genius of Richard Scarry
In his extraordinary career, Richard Scarry illustrated over 150 books, many of which have never been out of print. According to Penguin Random House, his books have sold over 100 million copies worldwide and are currently published in more than twenty languages. Known for his intricate illustrations and endearing anthropomorphic characters, Scarry’s stories have captivated generations of young readers.
This new capsule collection pays homage to Scarry’s timeless creations, translating his colourful characters and whimsical landscapes into luxurious leather goods. Each piece is a testament to the luxury brand’s commitment to craftsmanship and innovation, reimagined through a childlike lens.
Bottega Veneta Creative Director Matthieu Blazy, himself a fan of Scarry’s work, has channelled this nostalgic charm into a collection that celebrates the joy of discovery and wonder.
“As a kid, there is the adventure of the everyday – there’s a feeling that anything could happen, no matter how fantastical, and we are not so bound by regular expectations and conventions. The door is open to the possibility of strange realities and wonder, impossible scenarios that banish disillusion. This is about the power of sincerity over strategy,” reports Vogue.
A World of Wonder: Bottega Veneta x Richard Scarry
The collection also features a range of practical yet playful accessories, all crafted with Bottega Veneta’s signature artisanal elegance. From striped Intrecciato dust bags to apple-shaped belt buckles, each piece reflects the pop of colours and whimsical characters that define Scarry’s world.
The star of the collection is a special edition of “The Biggest Word Book Ever,” a stunning volume adorned with an Intrecciato-printed cover. This unique design pays homage to the art of bookmaking and the enduring legacy of Scarry, as highlighted by Olympia Scarry, artist and granddaughter of the author.
Bottega Veneta Celebrates Childhood and Cultural Icon Richard Scarry
To celebrate the launch of the latest collection, Bottega Veneta hosted an intimate event at their Madison Avenue boutique. Olympia Scarry, granddaughter of Richard Scarry, hosted the event, highlighting the special bond between the Scarry family and Matthieu Blazy. A serendipitous discovery led to this collaboration: Olympia learned of Blazy’s admiration for Lowly Worm, prompting her to involve her father, Huck Scarry. Huck, a talented illustrator, created a personalised drawing of Lowly, igniting the spark that led to this unique partnership.
More than just stylish accessories, this collaboration is a meeting point of memory, art, and contemporary design. Scarry’s richly detailed illustrations and heartwarming stories have captivated generations, leaving an indelible mark on childhood and culture. This collection honours his legacy, translating iconic characters and vibrant landscapes into luxurious leather goods crafted with Bottega Veneta’s signature artisanal elegance.
Discover the entire collection and rediscover the joy of Scarry’s world at bottegaveneta.com.