Ruby room | features

RUBY x Ryder Jones 01.11.23

Known to radiate the spirit of summer, local artist Ryder Jones provides the Resort backdrop and illustrations that ensures this year is not short of sunshine. With all Resort purchases over $350 receiving a RUBY x Ryder Tote Bag*, stay tuned for sprinkles of Ryder all summer long... Hear more from Ryder himself on the collaboration + how he brought our 2023 Rubette summer to life.

"I love seeing how the drawings made in my yard are translated into garments and objects. It’s a transference of visual energy that moves from my realms into the store for people to encounter, I remain connected yet invisible."

When creating the RUBY x Ryder Jones illustrations, describe your process?

I was inspired by the floral patterns of board shorts and sarongs I saw as a little kid in Hawaii. The hibiscus in particular, I wanted to find a way to draw the flower in a single gesture, while keeping its form. It was sunny as I made these drawings. I worked on calligraphy paper outside. The wind was blowing away the pages, I found one in the grass the other day.

We really love the different textural elements in your work and this is something we have leaned into and really tried to keep - what inspires your use of different mediums?

I like to teeter on the edge of control. Negotiating the bleed of ink or moving in a very speedy way that cannot be planned. I tend not to look at the drawings until later on. I use the things close to hand, influenced by the mood I’m in. I try to find the thing that suits my energy. It doesn’t really matter what the medium is. For me it's not about being good at drawing, it's about communicating energy.

How did you ensure the RUBY spirit was channelled in the illustrations?

I feel like it was pretty effortless. I didn’t think too much about it to be honest and I think that’s why it works. I feel the pairing is natural and light-hearted, and that is a zone I like to spend time in!

What was your favourite part of the collaboration?

I love seeing how the drawings made in my yard are translated into garments and objects. It’s a transference of visual energy that moves from my realms into the store for people to encounter, I remain connected yet invisible.

What are you most excited for this summer?

I want to see dolphins. I love dolphins and dolphins love me! I think I saw one today, maybe it was a shark. Lol.