The Vilebrequin x Derrick Adams Limited Art Edition hits on political activism, leisure and radical joy.

Editorial images and pieces from the Vilebrequin X Derrick Adams Limited Art Edition

If there is anything this year taught us, it is that there is freedom in doing nothing. In fact, says multidisciplinary artist Derrick Adams, “People don’t give themselves the freedom to think about how doing nothing is something that is radical in itself.” This is the exact message Adams aimed to translate with his Floater series, created between 2016 and 2020. Each piece depicts how leisure can be a political act when embraced by Black communities, reengineering the way African Americans’ experiences are represented in American iconography and consumerism. It was a summer day when Adams realized swim trunks would be the perfect vehicle for this message and his art. Says Adams, “I chose swim trunks for their versatility across genders and ages, and with the multiple pockets, they can be worn from the pool to the pavement or beach to boulevard.” He partnered with designer swimwear, ready-to-wear and accessories brand Vilebrequin to design a pair of limited-edition swim trunks and matching tote bag. “Vilebrequin has a long tradition of collaborations with artists such as Alex Israel or Massimo Vitali. Working with artists expands and enriches our creative space,” says Vilebrequin CEO Roland Herlory. “Derrick’s Floater series, which celebrates the Black identity and the joy of leisure, was the perfect partnership for us.” And with Vilebrequin’s high-quality craftsmanship that allows for fabric to remain true to the artist’s original work, these trunks are guaranteed to spread the message of joy, which we all need right now. 701 S Miami Ave., Ste. 237B, Miami; 9700 Collins Ave., Ste. 211, Bal Harbour