BIGOTTA INTERVIEW — VINCENZO MENNILLO / VM-SHIRT
1 – How did VM Art come about? What would you have done otherwise?
VM Art was born in 2016, but the seed was planted in 2002 with M€URO
— a tragicomic character embodying our society’s obsession with money,
media, and survival. I started drawing scenes from my life through M€URO
on recycled materials. The idea evolved, and in Shanghai a friend encouraged
me to bring it to the world — starting with T-shirts. If not this, I’d still be
mixing art, satire, and activism. Freedom is a daily act of rebellion.
2 – Graphic tees are everywhere. What sets yours apart?
Mine are wearable messages. Each one is a personal, provocative story
— not made to flatter, but to spark thought. M€URO is my alter ego
— like I write my vision and Keith Haring draws. It’s pop, comics,
digital art, and critique rolled into one.
The goal isn’t fashion — it’s art you wear.
3 – VM turns 10 next year. Key milestones? Your audience?
From Shanghai prints to Brussels street art, the journey has been organic.
A turning point was seeing people wear my shirts not for style, but for
the message. My audience? Curious, conscious, creative — people who
resist passivity and seek meaning. My client is a gentle rebel.
4 – Who’s behind the brand? Where are you based?
I’m the founder and creative director, but I work with a fluid team
across Europe — web, logistics, design. We’re based in Brussels,
with production mostly in Germany, using certified, sustainable
materials. VM is a creative lab, not an office.
5 – How do you distribute?
Mainly through my webshop and curated social commerce.
I handle it all personally — each sale is a connection, not a
transaction. We’re also expanding into concept stores and art
events. VM isn’t fast fashion — every shirt is part of a larger story.
6 – Where do you see VM in five years?
I envision VM as a global community with branches in the US and Asia.
Alongside that, I’m building M€UROLAND — a large-scale urban
art project turning cities into visual poems. VM will always be more
Than a brand — it’s a gesture, a voice, a challenge.
Closing Thought:
Art isn’t just about beauty. It’s about showing new ways to live. I believe even a T-shirt can
carry that message — a small act of rebellion, worn with pride.
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