The focus of this new chapter is on the rich tapestry of underground art and culture in the city of New York. “‘Leaving was never my proud, Leaving New York never easy’ were the Michael Stipe lines looping while I was floating around the city documenting its underground net. It was my first time in New York: self-discovery and discovering new artists and friends come together in a flux, a natural and spontaneous process that spawns this second chapter of KIDS, a new celebration of community and creativity” says Stefano Gallici. Expanding on the foundation laid in London, Paris, and Berlin, the New York chapter of KIDS reaffirms Ann Demeulemeester’s aim at championing the creative spirit on a global scale. This edition brings together a new circle of makers and artists who embody the energy and diversity of New York’s thriving artistic community. Shot over one week in corners both iconic and hidden of the city, the project features musician Stella Rose Gahan.

STELLA ROSE

A KID OF NEW YORK

Your music can feel like a cathartic ride thanks to warm atmospheric sounds and emotionally intense vocals. How would you describe your musical style in your own words?
My musical style feels like a collection of reactions. I am still growing into a defined answer. Maybe you never really know. I guess that is the beauty of this creative world. We hope to be inspired by things that surround us and allow mistakes to lead us into unlikely places.

What experiences and ideas most influence your creative process when you’re composing or performing your music?
Movement has always been an influence to me. Whether that is physical movement or being in a car or train. There’s something about the momentum that is really telling in terms of ideas. It must be why I love New York. The movement keeps you going forward. Even when things feel stagnant inside you can lean on that momentum to provide some sort of pace. In performance, I really enjoy using my body to express the way I’m interpreting my songs in that moment. Can feel like painting or conducting when I twist my body and arms to guide the audience through the story.

On the same wavelength: is there a specific figure who serves as the main source of inspiration for you?
Watching films and going to a movie theater serves as a source of inspiration. Slipping into a film can feel so disarming. Falling in love with someone else’s fantasy.

You were chosen as the protagonist of Ann Demeulemeester’s new project “A kid of New York”. What impact has this experience had on you?
It was a complete honor to be invited to collaborate on this project with the team at Ann Demeulemeester. I have been an admirer of Ann Demeulemeester’s work for some time. So to be asked to be a small part of that history was very special. I adore Stefano and the whole team, looking forward to seeing what they have up their sleeve for the future.

Where do you hang out in NYC in terms of neighborhoods? Which ones are the coolest spots for a night out at the moment according to you?
I grew up and have always lived below 14th street. So it’s really what I know and love. My favorite spot at the moment is Eel Bar on Broome. Love slipping in for a few drinks and a bite. I did go for a drink at Bemelman’s uptown once. I felt very out of place and underdressed. But it was fun to sit back and watch those uptown New York City night crawlers. It’s good to go somewhere unfamiliar, the same places can be stagnant.

Considering your lineage and the musical legacy of your family, do you recognize yourself as rock royalty? How does that influence your artistic identity and aspirations as you carve out your own path in the music world?
Not sure I’ve ever thought about it that way. I guess time will tell.

What projects are you working on for the future?
I have an EP coming out this fall. I am currently on my first European and UK tour supporting A Place To Bury Strangers. I’ve incorporated songs from the EP in my set and it’s been fun to see how people are responding. Very much looking forward to it coming out. I’ve been exploring interests outside of music while writing and recording this EP. Found a real love for creative direction and editing some of the footage that will accompany the music.