As a rule of thumb, most fashion designers would fancy themselves as artists in every sense of the word. On the flip side, few painters, sketchers, sculptors, etc. would fancy themselves to be fashion designers. But that is beginning to change as 'classical artists' are shifting away from flat canvases in favor of three dimensional pieces as a form of artistic expression. Here are five to put on your radar:

1) Artist Laurance Rassin, an internationally recognized contemporary expressionist painter, debuted his strikingly beautiful collection of bold print scarves, tops, skirts, dresses and other women’s wearables last year. Earlier this year, he also released a special silk lingerie line with prints from his paintings.

Dress by Laurance Rassin

2) Artist Rebecca Robinson began creating her hand-painted line of 'psob' bags after envisioning a brand in which fashion accessories eventually became collector's items. Her quest to merge art and fashion has, in many respects, created an entirely new genre in handbag design. View the entire collection at psnob.com.

Clutch by Rebecca Robinson

3) In her work, artist Kara Maria explores the politics of war and its influence on popular culture. Her artistic process employs a chaotic all-over composition, with recurring figures, or similar objects repeated. Capturing the essence of Kara's work, designer Joui Turandot of Vagadu successfully transforms Kara's message into a powerfully expressive collection. View the collection here.

Designs by Kara Maria

4) Driven by the naturally occurring rhythm and geometry of the world, artist Rex Flodstrom strives to capture moments in time through his art. Inspired by his work, designer Joui Turandot of Vagadu effortlessly transforms his images into a collection of living art. View the collection here.

Designs by Rex Flodstrom

5) Artists Dmitri and Devora, who describe themselves as 'classically trained,' gave the fashion world a taste of what's to come at Eternal Spring '08 in San Francisco.  Their ability to transform simple forms into dynamic works of art makes this a pair in the coming months.

Dress by Dmitri and Devora