When we heard the news that the artistic director for Louis Vuitton and Off-White founder Virgil Abloh had passed on Sunday 28th November, it seemed like a mistake. The 41-year-old creative had achieved so much in such a short life, with recognition and influence that defied his young years. It was terribly sad to learn that he had been battling a rare form of cancer for the past two years in privacy while delivering project after project, flying around the world, djing, designing, creating, directing, inspiring and changing the world for so many. He was a champion of others and firmly believed in the power of change, and made it happen.

“Within my practice, I contribute to a Black canon of culture and art and its preservation. This is why, to preserve my own output, I record it at length.”

‘A Manifesto According to Virgil Abloh’, July 2020 for Louis Vuitton menswear SS21

And, record it he did. To say Abloh was prolific would be a huge understatement. His energy, creativity and generosity will be sorely missed.

To celebrate his life, we take a look at some of the incredible windows and pop up stores by Louis Vuitton that Abloh’s collections and designs were showcased in. May his legacy live on.

“As we collectively resurge, consider this my manifesto: as a presence of colour within the fashion establishment, I commit to inclusivity, unity, diversity, and individuality. I will continue to employ diverse candidates, financially support BIPOC and LGBTQ+ causes, shed light on businesses owned by BIPOC and LGBTQ+ individuals, work on public-facing initiatives that showcase BIPOC and LGBTQ+ role models, and assist organisations that promote more inclusive workforces. This is my invitation to move forward together with awareness, hope and determination. You are witnessing unapologetic Black Imagination on display.”

‘A Manifesto According to Virgil Abloh’, July 2020 for Louis Vuitton menswear SS21

May Abloh’s legacy live on, and his manifesto and oeuvre continue to inspire and help the industry “to move forward together with awareness, hope and determination” towards a better future.

“I’ve been on this focus, in terms of my art and creativity, of getting adults to behave like children again. That they go back into this sense of wonderment. They start to stop using their mind and they start using their imagination.”

Voice of Virgil Abloh, heard at his final, posthumous, menswear SS22 show for Louis Vuitton in Miami.