Virgil Abloh, the mastermind behind the "Off-White" label, has redefined contemporary streetwear with his effortlessly cool designs that blend fashion, furniture, art, and music. Growing up, "Off-White" was a synonym for pinnacle fashion—a brand that always seemed to hover above the rest. Abloh, celebrated for his dynamic creativity and relentless drive, has left an indelible mark on the world, empowering artists to lead with confidence and innovation.
I recently had the privilege of diving into Abloh's “Insert Creative Title Here”, a lecture he presented with charismatic grace at his alma mater, Harvard University. More than a lecture on his body of work, this stands as a collection of wisdom for creatives seeking guidance. One particular insight stays with me: “You also have to have mentors, dead or alive. You have to connect with a body of work or someone who formulated a thought and aesthetic. And then build yours upon theirs. What most people won’t tell you is that the people that you look up to didn't invent themselves.”
As a fourth-year design student, this revelation hit home. My admiration for icons like Paula Scher, Jessica Walsh, and Muriel Cooper had always been rooted in the belief that their originality and vision were inherent gifts bestowed upon them. Abloh's words, however, suggest that their paths were also paved by the influences they embraced—a humbling and inspiring thought that alleviates the pressure to be entirely original and instead, encourages building upon the legacy of the greats.
Entering the workforce, a singular ambition looms large in my mind: to be a perpetual design student. I commit myself to a journey of endless exploration. Whether through exploring new design mediums that push the boundaries of my comfort zone, fusing unique interests to create something unexpected, or seeking out collaborative opportunities that meld diverse perspectives, I aim to maintain a dynamic creative process. Creativity isn't just a spark; it's a flame that requires constant fueling.