Introduction to Acne Studios’ New Gallery

The respected semi-annual magazine, founded in 2004, has undergone a conceptual expansion. This expansion is a result of the revival of the magazine as a book in 2021, which has since returned to annual publication.

Background and History

The magazine was initially printed until 2014. Its founder, under the editorial team of Thomas Persson, played a significant role in shaping the brand. The brand’s history is deeply connected to its founder, who has been the driving force behind its growth and evolution.

The New Gallery

The gallery is located in the Palais Royal, a location that holds significant importance for the brand. According to Johansson, "It is a place for the employees of Acne Studios to show themselves and maybe start some new creative adventures. You should consider it a new type of empty space without a gallery." The Palais Royal shop was closed a few months ago to make room for the new gallery.

The Significance of Palais Royal

The Palais Royal remains an emblematic address for the brand. Johansson recalls his first visit to the location in 2007, saying, "I was in love, completely fascinated." However, Mikael Schiller, Executive Chair and Johansson’s co-owner, had reservations due to the high cost. After discussions, they decided to invest in the location, as Paris was the first real international stage they wanted to enter.

The Founders’ Journey

Johansson was born in Ronneby, Sweden in 1969 and grew up in the city of Umeå. He initially aspired to be a rock star, playing and singing guitar. His band was selected to represent Sweden in a competition sponsored by Yamaha, and they traveled to Tokyo to play in Budokan. However, his bandmates later removed him from the lineup. Johansson’s entry into fashion was almost accidental, and he has since become a key figure in the industry.

The Evolution of Acne Studios

Schiller joined Acne in the early 2000s, making Johansson the only original member of the brand. Fashion was not the primary focus of the brand at its inception. However, over time, the brand has evolved, and fashion has become a significant part of its identity. The brand’s growth and expansion have been shaped by the partnership between Johansson and Schiller.