From Coast to Coast
Posted on January 15, 2010
Filed Under STYLISTICS, INSIDER, IN THE KNOW, PEEP THIS!
Recently, We’ve had time to touch base with a new designer, Emka Adams for Gold Coast Trading. His line in corporates a type of street fashion that fancies present day and old school trends. His attention to detail on fabric, patterns, prints, and the stitching make his work something more then just clothing and closer to art. In our brief interview Emeka trails through his inspirations for this Summer/Spring 2010 line.
Trace: Where did you come up with the name “Gold Coast Trading”?
Historically the gold coast is the west coast of Africa, from Cape Three Points to the Volta River where alluvial gold is washed down. Portuguese and French navigators/traders visited this coast in the 14th century. From then Slavery started and forever changed Africa and the rest of the world. So i used the gold coast as a the creative ground zero and the 14th century as a historical reference point that curates the brand. Now in Africa there is a tangible move back to it’s originator status. Instead of looking outside for direction people are rightly looking at the amazing direction that’s going on all around them. They are reclaiming whats was lost and looking within for inspiration which is what the brand is striving for.
Trace: Do you work alone? If not who assists you?
As to the conceptualizing and execution, its a solo process but I’m extremely fortunate to have a small, but good group of people who help with creative support and refection. Tunde Ogunnooki and even Afrikan Boy were a big part of the vibe and development of the collection. My home girl Cassi Gibson really helps me stay on track and not divert from the goals I set out for each collection. So its always a group effort and will continue as such as the line moves forward.
Trace: What inspired spring / summer `10?
First and foremost the longing to be back home in Africa. Second, all the different movements in aft, fashion and music in Africa are so inspiring and amazing to research. So spring/summer 2010 is more or less a reflection of my time in Africa influenced by movements like Le Sapeurs and musicians like Nnkea. They all draw attention to Africa and its realities not from a western perspective but a truly African one, which is my goal for the line.
Trace :Where do you see you line placed [i.e what magazines on what artist ]?
Um, I dont know! I love trace. They always do a good job of representing whomever they are profiling. I would love to break down some of the barriers that super hi-fashion mags have put up and be in like a Vogue or Elle which I’m close to doing but whoever shows love its all good. As far as artist, afrikan boy of course, tv on the radio, BLK JKS, Esau Mwamwaya, Nneka, m.i.a always and just of like minded folks.
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