Siki Im wins a 2015 Vilcek Prize
A former architect, he is interested in the intersections of culture, theory, and psychology within the design process.
Siki Im was selected as the winner of a Creative Promise Prize in Fashion for his menswear designs that draw inspiration from architecture, culture, politics, and psychology. Im is the fashion designer behind SIKI IM, a line of luxury menswear, and DEN IM, a denim and basics extension line.
A former architect, he is interested in the intersections of culture, theory, and psychology within the design process. Sold in stores worldwide, each of Im’s collections centers on a theme (from immigrants and xenophobia to The Lord of the Flies), which he researches in depth to build into a collection of draped, often unisex pieces. He seeks to grow his company into a multi-focus creative design studio that also works in architecture and product design. Siki Im was born in Germany to Korean immigrant parents.
The Vilcek Foundation believes that immigrant contributions are invaluable to advancing the American arts, sciences, and culture. Now in their tenth year, the Vilcek Foundation Prizes pay tribute to and spotlight individuals whose accomplishments embody this belief.
The Vilcek Prize in the Arts honors an artist with records of major achievement in her or his field. The winner of the prize is awarded a $100,000 unrestricted cash prize and an unique trophy designed by Austrian-born designer Stefan Sagmeister.
The Vilcek Prizes for Creative Promise in the Arts, established seven years ago, commend young immigrant artists who have demonstrated outstanding achievement in the early stages of their careers. The winners each receive a $50,000 unrestricted cash prize and a certificate designed by Stefan Sagmeister.
