The Limit Does Not Exist: Off-White™
‘What do you want to be when you grow up?'--a common question asked throughout one's youth and early adulthood. Higher education is considered to bring an answer to this question, often after selecting a major concentration. Although applicable, one's chosen field of study need not solely reflect their professional pursuits in a literal sense. Knowledge gained in these courses can broaden the scope of professional endeavors. Education intends to teach, expand one's thoughts and intellect, and then apply to an ever-evolving world.
Virgil Abloh embodies this sentiment, understanding the value of education while taking the road 'less traveled by.' Abloh's resume is expansive as the creative director of Louis Vuitton Men, founder of luxury brand Off-White™, close ties to music powerhouses, such as Kanye West, not to mention various collaborations. However, it may come as a surprise that Abloh was a former Architecture graduate student.
In 2017, Abloh spoke in a crowded lecture hall to Columbia University Architecture Graduate students, a crowd of a similar academic background. Abloh shares an anecdote from his course, where his professor announced to students, only a few would build buildings following graduation. This seemingly negative sentiment is meant to warn students of the competitive nature of the field. Rather than fear, Abhloh found comfort in this reality. Sure of himself, he knew he did not choose architecture to 'build buildings.' He then states, "young architects can change the world by not building buildings." Abloh seeks to challenge the next generations of architects, creating beyond expectations.
Challenging norms are reflective in all of Abloh's projects, notably his brand Off-White™. Primarily, Abloh's architectural background is witnessed in the brand's consideration of space/structure. This consideration is fused with his support for anti-elite, counteracting 'high fashion.' Off-White™ is the industry's paradox as its aesthetic reflects street culture, appearing in international fashion weeks and being celebrated by notable figures.
Despite the success of the clothing line, Abloh would not consider himself a fashion designer. Instead, Abloh views himself as a thinker who creates out of dissatisfaction with current goods. Abloh's broad interests and nonconfining conception of himself led to his collaborations across various industries.
Through higher education, cultural experiences, and creative thought, Abloh crafts pieces and participates in projects that express raw originality. It is therefore beneficial for education and profession to embody this creativity and expansiveness. As indicated by Allan Kaprow, "The young artist of today need no longer say 'I am a painter,' or 'a poet,' or 'a dancer.' He is simply an 'artist.' All of life will be open to him." For Abloh, a creator, artist, and even a mere thinker, the limit does not exist.
Spring Ready-to-Wear Collection 2019
“The young artist of today need no longer say ‘I am a painter,’ or ‘a poet,’ or ‘a dancer.’ He is simply an ‘artist.’ All of life will be open to him. ”
Image source: https://www.vogue.com/fashion-shows/spring-2019-ready-to-wear/off-white