Marcel Oliver: The Park
Installment No. 01
A curated anthology that delves into the abstract, framing these themes within the context of social constructs and human experiences. This first installment offers a reexamination of its archives, featuring photography from past collections.
In 2018, Marco Cervantes released his first project, Envy Hills, the label not only focused on external style but delved into internal aspects of ones life. Despite the strong bond of its community, the brand emphasized peace, clarity of mind, and generosity. Its purpose was to change the way we perceive the world and the people around us. To further appreciate what we have and understand our purpose.
ENVY HILLS
Formed a paradox, the project created a perspective of unity, working against envy and making for a space of deeper acceptance. In 2019 it launched its first in house collection "Trademark Series" that served as the foundation for the following nine collections released thereafter.
Lightness of Light
Released June 30th, 2023, as the ninth and final campaign by Envy Hills for the Fall Winter 23 collection by Marco Cervantes. Following a recurring theme from previous campaigns, it implemented a sense of religion into its message. This time portraying light as a form of faith and hope.
"Found through the experiences lived in the environment around us. Visibly found everywhere, it constructs to each, a perception that defines the way we understand and live. The guidance to most, darkness for some. All ultimately facing the lightness of light."
Marco Cervantes
"I remember finding a locket one time. I took it and burried it, so everytime I wanted to see my reflection I had to go back and unbury it."
Matilda's Fantasy
LP The first time you brought up the idea of Matilda's Fantasy I was really intrigued. It sparked this feeling of wanting to know more about this person and their story and so I ask you, who is Matilda? It is a real person, someone you know, or just a creative title?
MC A few months back I was listening to this track Yellow Sarong by The Scene Is Now. This reminded me of an old friend I had and her name was Matilda.
LP What is the story behind Matilda’s Fantasy then?
MC The idea behind it derived from feelings of the past you know, when I listened to the track it reminded me of when I was younger and used to know Matilda. Things were much simpler, and I didn’t understand as much. That is what made it special. I guess looking back at it, Matilda created a narrative ripe with dreams, desires, and promises, yet rotten with complexities and contradictions.
LP Totally, at a young age we imagine these goals and visions but as we grow older those begin to fade. You mention complexities and contradictions and those are the hardships from reality we all face. It becomes a matter of believing in what once meant everything to you, and not letting that dream die.
MC Right, it's about finding purpose in what you do, and having a passion for the game.
LP Then tell me more about the images you have chosen for this installment.
MC I worked in collaboration with Sophia Passarelli and Nicole Fontes to capture the emotions and memories that build onto this concept. The girl showcases the desire of wanting to better oneself. We attempt to create a perfect image of ourselves, trying to battle the things that make us imperfect. At the same time, we accept the things holding us back, the vices and fallbacks, that is the juxtaposition.
Memories of Angels
Old friends and frequent collaborators, Marco Cervantes and Sophia Passarelli have spent their early years pursuing ambition while learning the importance of staying true to themselves. In Summer 2024, while spending their holidays respectively in Malibu and La Jolla, the two sat down for a broad conversation delving into their lives and careers, fashion, and image making.
Envy Hills Fall Winter 23. Los Angeles, CA. Photo: Sophia Passarelli.
SP Marco, what are your visual references when it comes to fashion and photography? I mean, for me, older films have been doing a lot lately, and I recently watched The Immoral Mr. Teas by Russ Meyer, which was a funny and great film, it finds a way to showcase societal norms in a werid and unusual way. What about you?
MC It's the same with me really. I've been watching lots of older films recently, and music has also been a significant influence. I've been playing everything from ambient and alternative, to post-punk and goth rock. I don't have a favorite genre, and I really listen to everything. Our latest project was the Autumn Winter 24 collection for Marcel Oliver, and the pieces we designed and styled were heavily influenced by those genres of music. I directed a short film for the collection, and it featured Ocean 1, 2, 3 by The Microphones, and that is such a good track.
SP We've worked together for some time now, which project of ours has had the most significance to you? I still remember the early days, we were so young and amateur shooting out of our bedrooms and garages at home, now we're working in our own studios surrounded by incredible talent.
MC I couldn't tell you which is my favorite. I view most of our work as a series that is ever lasting, there is really no end to this, therefore all of our projects are equally meaningful to me. You've been a big part of Envy Hills & Marcel Oliver and I really appreciate you.