Artist Series 01:
Dusan Dragovic
Leader of Livestock’s flagship store on Spadina Ave, Toronto, Dusan Dragovic is a cross-disciplinary creator that thrives in the ever-changing fashion sphere. Dusan distributes his creativity across a wide range of projects, with an enthusiasm for exploring emerging trends and innovations. Outside of his role as Store Manager, Dusan exercises his creative muscles through his brand, Group Therapy, which focuses on creating distinctive fashion concepts. He has also founded Bleach MFG, a company solely dedicated to design, manufacturing and production. His family has been his motivation throughout his career, where he strives to build a life for them all through pursuing his passions. A man of Serbian descent, he carries his heritage with pride, but feels most at home in Toronto, a city he credits as a great inspiration for his work in the fashion industry.
True artistry can often be seen as something that should be admired from a distance. At Livestock, we believe that true artistry is in fact lived, experienced and carried with you. Our Artist Series brings this philosophy to life. Featuring exclusive designs by an eclectic range of artists, the series showcases unique styles and perspectives in a medium that’s well known and loved. Each individual piece speaks to its artist’s personal vision and process. From impressive visuals to understated elegance, each design conveys the boundless possibilities of creative exploration. Versatile, visionary & vibrant, dive into a collection that delivers exclusive wearable canvasses.
What is one piece of advice or a lesson you’ve learned that you’ve taken with you, artistic or otherwise?
I’ve always believed in the importance of learning how to do things yourself. For years, I would try to communicate my ideas to other designers - whether it was for graphics, patterns, or concepts - and more often than not, I’d find myself compromising on the outcome. I came to realize that in order to truly bring my vision to life, I had to put in the work and learn the craft myself. It wasn’t easy, and there were plenty of moments where I’d second-guess myself, wondering if someone else could execute it better. what I found is that when the work comes directly from me, it always feels the most authentic. That’s what really matters to me - creating something that is 100% my own, something that reflects my true vision. In the end, that authenticity is what gives the work its value.
How do you feel the art world is evolving, especially for independent artists, and what role do you see yourself playing in that space?
The art world - and by extension, the fashion world - is becoming more accessible, especially with the rise of social media and online platforms. Independent artists and designers have the opportunity to directly reach their audience without the traditional gatekeepers. It’s empowering, but it’s also overwhelming because there’s a flood of content. For me, I see my role as someone who can bridge creativity with practicality, who can push boundaries while maintaining quality and authenticity. I believe in building something real and sustainable, whether it’s through Livestock or my own projects.
How does the medium of a t-shirt inspire or limit you compared to other forms of art you’ve explored?
A t-shirt is such an interesting canvas because it’s both wearable and universally accessible. It’s a form of self-expression that anyone can engage with, but it also comes with constraints - like size, material, and, often, a simpler aesthetic. But I love the challenge; It forces me to be more strategic in how I convey an idea or emotion. I’ve worked in different mediums, but there’s something about the simplicity of a t-shirt that keeps me grounded. It’s art for the everyday person, and that’s something that’s always inspired me.
What role does intuition play in your process? Do you find yourself conflicted between intuitively designing and following trends?
Intuition is at the heart of everything I create. Having good taste will separate any design from being trendy to staying authentic. Fashion is as much about feeling as it is about design. That being said, I wouldn’t say I’m disconnected from trends. Trends exist for a reason - they reflect the times we live in. My intuition is what keeps me from blindly following them. It helps me curate what feels right, what speaks to me, and what aligns with my values. It’s about creating something timeless, even if it’s in the context of current trends.
Looking ahead, are there any dream projects or themes you’re eager to explore in your future work?
I’m always focused on what’s next. I’ve been fortunate to collaborate with some incredible people I truly admire, and through my work with Group Therapy and Bleach MFG and I’m excited about the doors that continue to open. One goal I’m actively working toward is seeing Group Therapy carried at Livestock. It’s a step I’m eager to take, as it would be an amazing opportunity to see my brand contribute to a space that’s been a major inspiration for me.
What are you most proud of?
I think what I’m most proud of is the community I’ve helped build through my work - whether it’s the team at Livestock or the people who connect with my brands. I’ve been able to create something that resonates with others, and that’s incredibly fulfilling. Beyond the products themselves, I’m proud that my journey has been built on authenticity and hard work. There’s no shortcut to creating something meaningful, and I’ve never been afraid to put in the effort.
