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Fashion designer and artistic director Virgil Abloh has died at the age of 41. He is best known for founding his brand Off-White as well as being an artistic director for Louis Vuitton. His passing was confirmed by a post on his verified Instagram account.
“We are devastated to announce the passing of our beloved Virgil Abloh, a fiercely devoted father, husband, son, brother, and friend. He is survived by his loving wife Shannon Abloh, his children Lowe Abloh and Grey Abloh, his sister Edwina Abloh, his parents Nee and Eunice Abloh, and numerous dear friends and colleagues,” the post’s caption read.
Abloh was silently battling cancer since 2019. “For over two years, Virgil valiantly battled a rare, aggressive form of cancer, cardiac angiosarcoma. He chose to endure his battle privately since his diagnosis in 2019, undergoing numerous challenging treatments, all while helming several significant institutions that span fashion, art, and culture.”
In a career that spanned from music to fashion, Virgil Abloh was not only a designer but also an architect of some of the most memorable album covers in hip-hop. He designed covers for Kanye West and Jay-Z’s Watch The Throne collaboration, among many other milestones.
Abloh touched many lives, as evidenced by the number of tributes that have come out after his passing. Hailey Beiber posted a photo on Instagram with the caption, “Virgil completely changed the way I looked at street style and fashion, the way he looked at things inspired me deeply. I will never be able to fully express how grateful I am to have known him and worked with him, from walking on his runways to having him design my wedding dress and all the other amazing moments in between, I felt he was always rooting for me. He was someone who always brought life, charisma, love and fun to any situation, and every room he walked into. A once in a generation creative mind that is so rare and I’ll never forget his impact. We love you Virgil.”
Gigi Hadid also took to Instagram to say, “I am heartbroken by the loss of my dear friend, and a friend to the world, Virgil Abloh.
He was 1 of 1.
His kindness and energetic generosity left a lasting impression on every life he touched— he made everyone feel seen and special. He will be deeply missed, cherished, and celebrated by me and all the people and industries that have been lucky enough to work around & know the true supernova behind this man.
I picture him now like our Mickey Mouse .. forever with us, forever adored, forever magical, forever guiding us with that special Virgil FUN; I’m sure that’s how he wanted to be remembered, but still it will never be the same without him in the room.
You will continue to inspire me every day, V. I feel blessed and honored by every moment. Rest Easy, my friend. You are so loved.”
Opinions expressed by Artist Weekly contributors are their own.
