top of page
Writer's pictureDriss Kamara

Follow the OFF white rabbit

The phrase "Follow the white rabbit" embodies the idea of embarking on a challenging and unique path, where taking risks is essential, and forging your own way becomes a rewarding journey. Inspired by Virgil Abloh's path, this concept has resonated across the globe. This blog entry recounts a fortuitous encounter with the visionary designer, Virgil Abloh, and the profound impact he has had on art, culture, and the world.

In 2017, a group of friends and I set foot in the windy city of Chicago to explore the renowned contemporary ART Institute during Takahashi Murakami's Exhibit, "The Octopus Eats Its Own Leg." Having experienced crowded museums and long wait times for exhibits like Takashi's, we deliberately delayed our visit by a couple of weeks. Finally, the day arrived, and we embarked on a journey to witness the artistic brilliance of Murakami.


Stepping into Murakami's exhibit, I was immediately captivated by the breathtaking artistry. The display had a profound impact on me, making it one of my all-time favorite exhibits. Filled with inspiration, I decided to commemorate the day with an impromptu photoshoot with my friends. At that time, I was an amateur street photographer, eager to capture every moment.

During the photoshoot, as I was directing my friends, I noticed one of them gazing behind me, and as I turned around, there stood a man just two feet away. It was none other than Virgil Abloh himself, sporting his Nike tail winds and a Louis Vuitton bag. Behind him was a little girl, joyfully fitting her new Murakami pillow into a bag, accompanied by her mother.


Virgil smiled warmly and greeted us with a casual "what's up guys?" while waving his hand and placing it over his heart in a gracious gesture. As our friend expressed admiration for his work, Virgil humbly acknowledged the compliment, bowing his head gently and once again touching his heart. Watching him, his daughter, and his wife walk away, I couldn't help but capture a few photos of the family, unaware that this encounter would hold deeper significance in the years to come. Little did we know that the man we had encountered that day would become the head designer of one of the world's most prominent fashion houses. Virgil Abloh's rise to prominence has since been nothing short of historic, offering opportunities and inspiration to cultures worldwide. His impact on the world of fashion and beyond is immeasurable, and we are truly grateful for his contributions.


The phrase "Follow the white rabbit" took on a profound meaning that day, as we ventured through Murakami's exhibit and encountered the visionary Virgil Abloh. This serendipitous meeting reminded us of the power of taking chances, forging our own paths, and embracing unexpected encounters along the way. Virgil's journey has not only influenced the world of fashion but has also inspired countless individuals, leaving an indelible mark on art, culture, and humanity as a whole. We express our sincere appreciation for the inspiration he has bestowed upon us all. V.A.🕊



7 views0 comments

Recent Posts

See All

Comments


bottom of page