Since 2018, Annie Immaterial has been offering clients world-class personalization and customization on a wide range of luxury goods through her company, The Immaterial. Before founding her customization house, Annie trained at premier art institutions and established the custom painting studio at Goyard’s Rodeo Drive flagship store in Beverly Hills. Some of her clients include the Kardashians, Louis Vuitton, GOOP, and Michael Kors.
Annie recently talked with StockX about her influences, her disdain for white supremacists, and gearing up for a whole lot of collaborations for the latest installment of “That’s 5.”
The following interview has been lightly edited.
All photos by Ariel Roman
What influences you?
I had amazing professors in art school at CCA (California College of the Arts). They taught me that, as an artist, if I wanted something that I couldn’t have or afford, I could make it on my own. I had been lusting over a particular pair of Chanel earrings that I could not afford. So I made them for myself out of dirt I dug up from an Oakland park. And they were cool! Luxury is in the eye of the beholder.
My most influential teacher after I left graduate school was master painter Sophie Larivain from Goyard. She developed and oversaw all of their customization work from her studio in Carcassonne, France. We met at Goyard’s NYC flagship store. She didn’t speak a word of English, and I didn’t speak any French. For a week, I learned by watching and making. Sophie embodied the dignity of craftsmanship at a heritage brand, yet always urged me to have fun and not rush myself or the work.
As a custom painter, I’m often taking beautiful pieces made from the best materials available in the world and customizing them in ways never intended. Sourcing the right paints, working with my clients to create that perfect wearable piece of art is all a result of my life experiences culminating in a time and place. That’s The Immaterial.
What’s the most overrated?
This current administration and the racists that support it: white nationalism, aka racism, aka NazisTotally unacceptable. At The Immaterial, I offer free anti-fascist symbols with any order, any size on any additional item. So you can pay me to paint a weed leaf on your wallet, and I’ll paint you a “No-Nazis” back patch on your jean jacket for free!
What’s the most underrated?
Luxury vintage. Pieces come out in new seasons’ collections that you have to have—which is totally reasonable—but for most staple pieces, vintage is a great way to go. Not only is it sustainable but you can get a lot for your dollar and then you can spend all that money you saved on customization, ha!
What are you most excited about, right now?
Being my own boss and saying yes to incredible opportunities. It’s a ridiculous proposition to make a living as an artist. But I’m so ready for this leap. I’m ready to represent my style while collaborating with new clients to create something truly unique for them that I’m proud to put my name on; I’ve always wanted to do this, and now it’s happening. It’s exciting to find ways for my work to stand out and connect with new clients that are willing to come with me on the journey.
What’s next for you?
Collaborations! I’m meeting and finally getting to work creating customized pieces with other great artists, designers, and musicians that I’ve loved forever. It’s happening, and I am ready for it!
Bonus Question: Was that 5?
I know what you’re thinking, “Did she answer five questions or only four?” Well, to tell you the truth, in all of this excitement I kind of lost count. So you gotta ask yourself one question, “Do I feel lucky?” Well, do you, punk?
