KLUTCH
How did Klutch Tape start?
I love the human body and greatly admire all the things it can do. I discovered the Black Tape Project and was blown away by the concept of using tape to accentuate the human body. The simplicity and beauty of the designs captivated me, and I knew I wanted to be a part of it.
Unfortunately, the artist behind the Black Tape Project and the supermodel vibe didn't resonate with me, so I decided not to pursue opportunities with his brand nor learn his art style.
Then with the rise of artistic expression during the pandemic, I saw a post that captured me, where my friend was tagged in a photography session featuring body tape art in a way I hadn't seen before. I discovered the Houston based artists, Tito from Lavish Tape HTX, that created without any ego attached to his artwork. Intrigued in his exploration with all different body types, I connected with him on Instagram. I expressed my interest in his art form, admired his inclusive approach to different body varieties, and asked if he would be willing to share more about his craft.
He invited me to shadow him for a shoot, and coincidentally, the model was an acquaintance of mine! Subsequently, he invited me back for another shoot, handed me some tape and scissors, pointed them at a model and said, “This is your model, this is your inspiration.” I got to taping and quickly entered a flow state, feeling like I was solving a puzzle of fitting the tape on this canvas– this human canvas. I treasured and thoroughly enjoyed the experience.
Being inspired, as soon as I returned to Austin, I contacted a photographer friend of mine and another friend who would make a wonderful model. We created a photoshoot, which led to most of my subsequent work. I've also taught workshops and private lessons, including a date night for a couple who wanted to learn how the husband could tape up the wife for events. It was so sweet, I couldn’t help but want to be apart of it! With those experiences, I’ve been exploring more of my own art and style.
Inspiration & Collaboration
My inspiration is always about bringing out the best in the person, the canvas, and my collaborators– whether it's the photographer or the model and the agreed upon artistic exploration and experience. With this I aim to enhance the model's natural beauty using the tape. Sometimes, motifs arise spontaneously, like when models or photographers bring masks that we incorporate into the shoot. These elements can either enhance the design or influence the entire scheme. I've also experimented with different ideas, such as working with two models and shooting them separately and together.
And then I reached out to Chelsea from Rose Colored Studios–
I just love her use of lights and colors, and saw an amazing opportunity to combine our artistic styles to create something special. We came up with the idea of a Trifecta: three models in three different bright holographic colors, separate yet part of a single project. It's been a super wonderful experience featuring some of my favorite humans taped up, with Chelsea being this amazing energy both behind the camera and support the whole process. I couldn't ask for anything better.
Creative Process
To get into a creative mood, I focus on the person I'm working with, thinking in geometric shapes and deciding on a concept—whether it's empty space, shapes, or a specific theme. My ritual involves drinking a protein shake, a cold brew coffee, and taking a micro-dose of LSD. Whether it's placebo or not, I believe hallucinogens can unlock different brain pathways, helping my creativity without compromising my state of mind.
A must-have for long shoots?
SNACKS! Especially gummy candies! They keep the brain buzzing and the mood light. Plus, who doesn’t love a little sugar rush to keep us energized?
Good music is also game-changer! It helps my brain focus and get into the flow state, as I solve the puzzle before me–
“How do I fit and shape these pieces of tape to bring out the best from the human canvas in front of me?!”
Artistic Influences
I love seeing the work of other artists, whether it's photography, sculptures, tape art, or body painting. Their ideas and creations galvanize me to keep creating. On my art Instagram, I follow mostly photographers and models who share their shoots and inspired projects. Shattered glass is phenomenal and what Simon Berger constructs out of broken glass is encouraging. His stunning portraits made from shattered safety glass amaze me and open my eyes to endless artistic possibilities and mediums to do so. I feel constantly inspired by all the artist out in the world.
I'm also deeply moved by Burning Man culture, where everyone is inspirited to create and contribute. This vibrant, collaborative art scene keeps me constantly inspired!
Creating a safe space for amazing art to flow~
It's essential to me that everyone involved in a project feels good about it, including myself. I want the photographer to feel their time and energy were well spent, and the model to feel powerful, sexy, beautiful, and most of all invoke their sense of self in the final tape design.
Klutch Full Spectrum
I'm passionate about so many creative hobbies! I love problem-solving, acrobatics, partner and circus arts, and performing. I've even taught my dog, Haku, to jump through hoops and perform tricks. It's a fun way for him to channel his energy as a working breed, and we both enjoy the show!
Future Projects
I dream of taping people up for music videos, events, and parties, creating unique costumes for amazing people. Whether it's getting my designs on a runway, featured in a video, or part of a live performance, I want to share this art style with the broader world. I also plan to explore new mediums, like body painting and photography, and even imagine using technology to enhance my tape art. I’m exploring ways to pre-print and cut shapes to enhance it!
People often ask if I've taped any men, and while body hair can be a challenge to nest the adhesive elements required for taping, through thoughtful problem solving I would love to feature more male-presenting individuals in the future, showcasing diverse models in all my creative projects.
I’m actively looking for more opportunities to learn new mediums, showcase my art and connect with more photographers, videographers, and models to collaborate with in the future!