Ben — Incu Collection, Creative Director

Ben — Incu Collection, Creative Director

We chat to the Creative Director of our in-house brand Incu Collection about how he’s coping being cooped up with two energetic boys, including homemade skate ramps and upbeat playlists.

I've been lucky enough to work from a friends house while they are living on their farm. I’m enjoying their amazing garden as an office backdrop. It's incredibly peaceful, and has allowed me time to reflect on my journey so far and where I see myself and the business going in the future. My wife has been home-schooling the kids (shout out to her!), so it's been a sanctuary of silence here.

Tell us a little bit about yourself?
I’m the Creative Director of our in-house brand Incu Collection. 

About 10yrs ago I had my own label, Friedrich Gray, which was actually stocked at Incu and that’s how I came to know the owners Brian and Vinnie. Since then I’ve worked with several contemporary Australian womenswear brands and stores. I’ve been with Incu for around 3yrs now.

What are you doing whilst staying at home?
I've really been enjoying listening to more diverse music and diving into some live stream dj sessions by some cool international DJ’s in their home studios/living rooms. 

I've picked up my exercise and running again. I normally ride my bike to work, so without the commute I’ve been getting my sweat on in other ways, such as virtual yoga and body weight workouts. I’m currently following @the_440 who are encouraging people to do some kind of movement everyday. They have a great inclusive community, something Incu does so well too. - You can check it out here. 

How are you coping with Staying In and Keeping Safe? 
It has been testing at times, I'll be honest. We have 2 very active young boys, who need to be outside exercising. In an attempt to keep them occupied, we have been using cardboard and various kitchen products to make skate ramps for their mini finger skateboards and BMX’s, (yes that’s a thing nowdays!) it takes me back to my teenage days. I've learnt to kick flip and boardslide again! 

Have you found yourself doing something that you normally wouldn’t?
Yes - My eldest son, Vinnie and I shaved our hair off, it was a solid father-son bonding session, and was the 1st time I’d shaved my head in probably 25 years. I'm not sure if it's aged me or if I look younger! 

We have been using cardboard and various kitchen products to make skate ramps for their mini finger skateboards and BMX’s, (yes that’s a thing nowdays!) it takes me back to my teenage days. I've learnt to kick flip and boardslide again! 

How are you keeping sane?
I love my electronic and uplifting music, especially in these emotionally difficult times. Music can provide a great inspiration and can shift and alter your mode accordingly, so why not choose an upbeat vibe. 

We decided to launch a series of Incu Collection playlists – each with varying themes and purpose, check this one out, which is designed as an “ISO nightclub mix” turn the lights out & cue some youtube footage of your fav nightclub scenes.

Head here for INCU RADIO – Incu Collection Volume 1

Any favourite local restaurants you're supporting?
Ode Bunker - My friends have had to transition their food and wine bar, into a takeaway service/delivery, and have now launched a new site.

If you love Organic Natural wines, hit them up, and let them know Benny sent you! Oh and they deliver. 

Orchard St – they have the healthiest Juices in Sydney!  

Porch + Parlour in Bondi – Staying connected to your local café is a great way to keep the people working in the community and to stay connected. But respect the social guidelines.

And lastly, tell us about the new collection from IC:
We wanted these pieces to be adaptable and work in with our customers' wardrobes!

View Incu Collection 3 Ways to Wear Campaign here

WORDS BY ANN XIAO
IMAGES BY BEN POLLITT

@Incu_clothing