Finding Sexy in Virtue: Yotam Solomon’s NYC Debut

The relationship between humanity and technology is one of interdependence. Having extended beyond purely practical purposes, more often than not, we value the latest expressive and experiential capabilities on a level never before seen in history. One truth many may ignore is that as long as human beings have been using learning and applying new science to improve their lives, we have been finding new ways to incorporate technology into our intimate, sexual lives.

On June 29th, ARCHIV3 was invited to Maison 10, a vibrant gallery tucked away in the heart of Chelsea, owned by couple & art-repreneurs Henri Meyers & Tom Blackie. It was in this space that Yotam Solomon showcased their new LA based intimates brand: Virtue. One step inside will have you finding yourself in a shop straight from Puerto Vallarta’s Zona Romantica, with gifts and artful toys arranged in vibrant displays that reflect tasteful curation in line with June being Pride Month. Take a step upstairs, and find yourself in a gallery similar to something out of Basel Miami. Featuring a range of artists of different backgrounds, including ARCHIV3 family member Alessia Mossia, the Maison felt catered to showcase innovative expression in the safest space imaginable.

Yotam Solomon, photography courtesy of Joshua Sauceda.

Beyond AR porn and personal pleasure, the intersections of sex and technology, or as ‘Sex-Tech’ for short, have led to developments that have shaped human history since their discovery. Since humanity first discovered and became familiar with where babies come from, what we have done with that knowledge as a species has fundamentally altered and driven developments in medicine, scientist, psychology, art, and beyond. However, the relationship between sex and fashion is at once both inexplicable and understated. From improving one’s dress sense to express interest, to a full blown language not meant for the uninitiated, fashion has been one of the most powerful flourishing points in Sex-Tech.

Founded in 2023, Virtue represents Solomon's commitment to empowering sex positive communities through individuality and expression. The brand is highlighted by a lingerie design meant to celebrate all body types and gender expressions. Modeling Solomon’s brand were SX Noir, the “thot” leader in Sex-Tech, streamer and influencer Cody Silver, and model and performer Aiden Dean, showcasing how black, East Asian, trans, masc, and femme folks make the garments their own. The show truly began, however, when the straps came undone.

Award winning photographer Alessia Moccia.

Founders of Alter New Media, Nadya Rousseau (left) and Lauren Jones (right).

While explaining Virtue’s mission, Solomon began to undo straps from the body of the panty to form a garter, and alternate as a bracelet. In addition to bondage play and interlocking with other straps, the user also has the option to turn the straps into a choker, and integrate these new accessories in play and other interactions. There’s a whimsical element to the design of the pieces, and the joy of new discovery washed across the model’s faces in seeing unimagined possibilities afforded to them by Virtue’s garments. Technology and human progress so no sign of slowing down. From fashion, to financial solutions and fine art, sex as part of the human experience has actively and passively influenced the world in ways that cannot be ignored. With Virtue, Solomon expresses his core message in an unbelievably resonant way: everyone deserves to feel sexy as they are.

Writing by Nik VRSI

Photography by Josh Sauceda