Zadie Xa and Gilbert & George reinvent the iconic handbag for the latest Lady Dior Art Project The beautiful creations from 12 superb artists are available to buy now

BY AMY DE KLERK

Each year, Dior enlists some of the world's most exciting artists to take part in the Lady Dior Art Project, asking them to reinvent the iconic Lady Dior handbag through their own artistic vision. Now in its eighth year, this time sees 12 artists – including the likes of Mickalene Thomas, Zadie Xa and Michaela Yearwood – take on the challenge, with seriously beautiful results.

"An encounter between Dior and the world's cultures, this wonderfully inspiring carte blanche showcases virtuoso techniques and artisanship, imbued with a spirit of innovation," Dior said of the project. "Every detail, thought out with infinite meticulousness, fuses dream and reality through the combined prism of imagination and exceptional savoir-faire, transcending the limits of excellence."

The bags are available to buy now, in selected stores (including New Bond Street and within Selfridges).