The Shape of Play by Sabine Finkenauer Opens at L.F. Markey
Amy Duong — September 22, 2025 — Art & Design
References: londondesignfestival
The Shape of Play by Sabine Finkenauer opens at L.F. Markey for London Design Festival, filling the Dalston Lane store with bold colour and rhythmic abstraction. The Barcelona-based artist works with circles, arches, diamonds, and curves, creating symmetrical compositions through repetition and mirroring. Her hybrid technique of oil pastels and monotype printing produces soft-edged textures that feel tactile and expressive. Installed among the brand’s womenswear, the exhibition highlights parallels between Finkenauer’s visual language and L.F. Markey’s design approach.
The collaboration reflects a mutual admiration. Finkenauer often wears the label in her studio, while founder Louise Markey cites the arts as inspiration for her silhouettes. Together, they explore how play, colour, and structure shape both clothing and drawing. The Shape of Play transforms the store into a creative environment that blurs art, fashion, and daily life, encouraging visitors to see design as a joyful act of expression.
Image Credit: Sabine Finkenauer
The collaboration reflects a mutual admiration. Finkenauer often wears the label in her studio, while founder Louise Markey cites the arts as inspiration for her silhouettes. Together, they explore how play, colour, and structure shape both clothing and drawing. The Shape of Play transforms the store into a creative environment that blurs art, fashion, and daily life, encouraging visitors to see design as a joyful act of expression.
Image Credit: Sabine Finkenauer
Trend Themes
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Art-fashion Collaborations — Bringing together artists and fashion designers creates innovative spaces where visual art seamlessly integrates with apparel design.
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Tactile Art Experiences — Exhibitions that incorporate textures and materials engage viewers on a sensory level, offering multi-dimensional interactions with art.
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Playful Retail Environments — Transforming retail spaces into immersive art installations enhances the shopping experience by merging creativity with commerce.
Industry Implications
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Art Galleries — Art galleries embracing hybrid art forms and textures can offer unique experiences that attract a broader audience attracted to tactile engagement.
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Fashion Retail — Integrating artistic exhibitions in fashion retail spaces provides a platform for brands to differentiate themselves and draw in customers seeking more than just products.
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Design Festivals — Including cross-disciplinary works in design festivals allows for innovative storytelling that resonates across diverse creative communities.
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