Here at FAB we have been following legendary designer Ozwald Boateng on his inspirational journey through Africa. We looked at Ozwald’s early life yesterday and today we get into his teenage years and find out a bit more about his African Adventure.
Biography
While studying computing at Southgate College aged 16, he was introduced to cutting and designing by his girlfriend. Using his mother’s old sewing machine, he started designing and selling to his fellow students, and switched to graduate in fashion and design.
Boateng helped a friend to make clothes for a fashion show, and after receiving praise for his work, sold his first collection to a menswear shop in Covent Garden. Some of his first pieces were also sold in Academy, Newburgh St. C1987 This enabled him to open his first studio in Portobello Road in 1991. In 1994, Boateng staged his first catwalk presentation during Paris Fashion Week, the first tailor to stage a catwalk show in Paris.
Adventures in Africa
It’s so inspiring is the way they have turned these shanties in to beautiful, vibrant works of art. People pay thousands to hang a piece of art on their wall. Soweto IS art.” – Ozwald Boateng
Check out the FAB blog tomorrow for the conclusion of this amazing adventure!
Hmmmm…interesting….Was it Ozwald who facilitated the painting of these walls though?