Creative Spotlight is our dedicated space for celebrating the visionaries shaping the pulse of Africa and the Diaspora. We created this segment to pull back the curtain, giving you an exclusive look at the minds behind the art you admire, the fashion you wear, and the culture you consume every day. Today, we are thrilled to put the lens on the incredible Ghanaian stylist, Theophilus Kojo Lartey.
Tell us a little about your background
I have HND in marketing and a degree in purchasing and supply.
At what point in your life did u decide your career path?
It has always been part of the lifestyle. Growing up as a kid in Jamestown which harbors the biggest thrift market (Kantamanto) in Africa, the movement and DIY for clothes and style as always been part of our culture.
What inspired your brand name?
My name, the market(Kantamanto/Makola), community and vintage architectures across every coastal area in Ghana.
What and who inspired you to choose your career?
Cultural movement, friends, and also my uncle who was a tie and dye expert. Growing up around these people inspired me to choose my career path.
Details about your work? What does it entail?
Personally my experience as a shop attendant at the Kantamanto market woke my senses as a creative to explore all kinds of style and culture which makes my works unique because of the access to curate unique pieces to work with. As a stylist my work entails not just the visual storytelling through clothes and accessories but also understanding the concept and psychology together with the client or project.
Your past works? People and brands you’ve worked with.
Worked(styled) with brands and Ghanaian musicians such as Fameye, Ofori Amponsah, Kwesi Arthur, Uche B, Black Sherif, Kwame Eugene, and Sister Afia.
Recent Notable Works
Worked as an assistant producer on a campaign for two UK brands (TGB, Le Tings). I also work part-time as a creative assistant and a producer at “THE REVIVAL”.
Advice To Creatives Venturing Into Your Field
Do not fear to express your art/ style in your own way.
Follow @theimullar on Instagram and X(Twitter) for more.
