The Gap recently introduced a new collaboration with the website Threadless (www.threadless.com). Through the site, artists submit their T-shirt designs and the public votes on which ones are printed as limited runs. The Gap has brought 10 women's and 16 men's tees from Threadless to select stores (Mall of America) and Gap.com, including one by Phil Jones of Minneapolis. An art director at Carmichael Lynch by day, Jones has had 23 shirts printed and distributed through Threadless.Q How did you get involved with Threadless?
A As a creative outlet. It was a way to do stuff on my terms. I was my own client. It also gave me a chance to connect with other artists. I quickly realized it would make me better as a designer.
Q What was your reaction to being selected for the Gap collaboration?
A It was terribly exciting. I maybe chopped my desk in half. Every designer and artist dreams about getting in front of more and more people. It's the first time in my life my mom figured out what was I doing. T-shirts are a very relatable medium. It's basic, but it's walking around with a canvas on your chest.
Q What inspired the shirt?
A Honestly, it's as simple as it is -- the typography: "I hate negative statements." It's a funny play on words. I'm an über-positive person. I do hate negativity. I hate irony, as well, which often comes off as negative.
Q How do you characterize the design aesthetic of the Twin Cities?
A Outside of New York, I think this is the most happening art area. It's so embracing. Everybody knows everybody, and everybody props everyone up.
Q Any favorite spots for getting inspired?
A I absolutely love walking in and around downtown. I also love getting on my bike, getting to the local shops. I don't particularly go to places like modern art museums. I draw so much inspiration from everyday life around me.
Pick of the week
Diane von Furstenberg for GapKids and babyGapKids will want to empty out their closets for the first collaboration between Diane von Furstenberg and GapKids. Launching in all stores Thursday, the collection features Von Furstenberg's signature wrap dresses and happy prints, which look like they were made for the tot-sized demographic. For $20 to $120, they capture the fun spirit of the grown-up line and give aspiring fashion plates a chance to try on a future closet staple.
SALES AND EVENTS
THURSDAY
Samuelsohn trunk show: A made-to-order specialist will assist with purchases. Take 10 percent off your first special order, 15 percent off the second and 20 percent off additional orders.
Hubert White, 747 Nicollet Mall, Mpls., 612-339-9200, www.hubertwhite.com.
FRIDAY
Genetic Denim trunk show: Jeans from the brand will be 30 percent off. If you bring in a pair of clean, gently used jeans to donate, you'll get an additional 10 percent off. Special orders available for 15 percent off.
2 to 8 p.m., Stephanie's, 758 S. Cleveland Av., St. Paul, 651-690-3802.
CONTINUING
Pumpz & Co.'s Spring Break Event: Take 25 percent off Mystique sandals. Purchase $150 or more of the warm-weather jewelry, totes and flip-flops, and receive a J.W. Hulme luggage tag.
Through Fri., Galleria, 952-926-2252.
Sale at Shop Again Consignment: Look for green dot clearance items for $1, and take $1 off anything more than $5.
Through Sat., 4 Shady Oak Rd., Hopkins, 952-935-4829.
Sara Glassman • 612-673-7177 • sglassman@ startribune.com • Twitter: @sararglassman
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