ART DIRECTION FOR DAZED MENA A$AP FERG COVER

The first time I met Ferg was in 2006. Kwasi told me about this dude from Harlem making chains inspired by Nigo. Colorful stones and pendants, super crazy. We wanted to create one for Laced Magazine.

A few years later, Kwasi showed me a leather belt he was planning to style on Chris Brown. I asked who made it.

He said, Ferg.

I laughed like, he makes belts too?

Then a few years after that, Cal played me a new artist he was working with. It was A$AP Rocky… and who was on the song with him?

Ferg again!

I looked at Cal like, Ferg makes music too?

What I didn’t understand back then, but I see clearly now, is that he’s always been fearless in his creative expression. Never afraid to evolve. Never afraid to be vulnerable in the work.

20 years later, I get to say I art directed a  Ferg cover for DAZED MENA.. surrounded by family.

Ramshah Kanwal behind the lens, someone I’ve had the privilege of watching grow into an incredible photographer.

The man, the myth, the legend Kwasi Kessie, who i’m proud to say I’ve known for almost 30 years, styling the shoot.

My cousin Rob assisting!

And so many friends and family showing up to create something special in Harlem, my birthplace.

Forever grateful to be a part of moments like this.