STUDIO_COPULA began as an experimental accessories lab based in NYC. Established by four designers Christina Zhu, Cecilia Zhu, Eason Gao, Chubai Liu in 2018.The name is derived from the Latin noun for a “link” or “tie” that connects two different things. The label holds the belief that humans are social animals that need to be connected in order to thrive and to survive.
“Social”, the word itself, is merely a coping-ideology formulated by the development of our societal infrastructure, fuelled by the human instinct to orient towards each other. It is merely collective ideas projected outwards, merely expressions of human connectivity, yet a dominant force that shapes the perception and behaviour of our current generation. However, with the acceleration of technological advancement, the world lacks the interconnection between individuals.
The New York/Shanghai-based design team behind Studio Copula; Christina Zhu, Cecilia Zhu, Eason Gao, Chubai Liu, all graduated from Jewellery and Metalsmithing program at Rhode Island School of Design depicts their aesthetics as forward and edgy.
These four designers have gained tremendous experience from professional backgrounds including Proenza Schouler and Chris Habana with members contributing to multiple big fashion projects such as Alexander Wang X Gentle Monster eyewear SS19, Victoria’s Secret SS19 accessories as well as customised accessories for celebrities such as Christina Aguilera and Beyonce etc.
Aside from professional practices, members have been slowly gaining recognition from the industry through awards and exhibitions such as CFDA Future Graduate Showcase, Saul Bell Design Award, A’’Design Award, NYC Jewellery Week, and The Enamelist Society. While pursuing their education, they decided to join forces and established the label in New York under the name Studio Copula.
The label aims to seek and observe social phenomenon and issues within postmodern society. With an urge to dissect the human society, the label simulate an experimental lab to formulate futuristic accessories especially made for the post modern human beings’.
