The San Francisco artist unveils her own fashion collection.
SF artist Kate Tova modeling the Meadow gown from her new collection.
Since the pandemic, Kate Tova (@kate_tova, katetova.com) has emerged as one of San Francisco’s most creative forces. From her pop-up murals that brightened the city during COVID’s darkest days to splashy commissions, the artist with the rainbow palette has become part of the city’s visual dialogue. Tova paused for a few minutes to talk about her new fashion line, creative happiness and dog rescue.
Your inspiration for your new fashion line?
Art and big events. I started designing dresses for myself whenever I had my art shows, news appearances or galas. Mostly because I couldn’t find anything special in the stores, and it pushed me to design the looks myself. Life is too short to blend in.
What can fashionistas expect to see in each piece?
Each fashion piece is a true wearable artwork. Art is timeless, and I want my fashion creations to be the same. People are so intrigued when they see me wearing a corset covered in thick painted brushstrokes or floral embroidery covered in paint.
How are the pieces made?
Each piece is specifically made for the client’s measurements. The gowns are crafted in the United States by custom dressmakers and finished by me in my San Francisco studio. For some pieces, I cover the whole corset in paint and then apply glass crystals and even gold leaf by hand.
Biggest artistic inspirations?
Nature. I feel so lucky to live in the Bay Area surrounded by mountains and the ocean.
Your fashion inspiration?
Christian Siriano, Valentino, Oscar de la Renta. Colors, tulle, jewels and florals bring me so much joy.
When are you happiest?
When I’m creating. It helps me relax and live in the moment. I call my creative process productive meditation.
If you weren’t doing art, what would you be doing?
I would love to have my own pet rescue. I’ve fostered more than 40 dogs, and it was the most rewarding experience of my life. I always encourage people to adopt, because it’s a great way to find a perfect match for your energy level and personality—just like my patient dog Toochi who I taught to paint!
Photography by: COURTESY OF KATE TOVA
