Ghetto designer eyes global market

HARARE-BASED graphic designer Wilfred Gatsi believes his uniqueness, creativity and innovativeness have sustained his designing career in the competitive world of fashion.

Gatsi told NewsDay Life & Style that his connection with the printing business, which he married with his passion for writing and paintings, drove him towards the graphic arts.

“The art and design industry has become competitive as many are wearing personalised clothing for different ceremonies and events, but with a decade of experience I have managed to satisfy my customers’ needs,” the Kuwadzanabased designer said.

“I prioritise the details that are provided by my clients and I have always delivered the best as most of my designs are eye-catching to my clients’ tastes. I believe my ability lies in my effort, creativity and dedication when I am working on a design. My output becomes best when the work is more challenging for me.”

The 33-year-old designer said social media had been the main source of his clientele as he used his skill to design clothes for different people, including some popular faces.

“I have worked with dancehall singer Freeman for eight years (from 2010 to 2018) and I have designed T-shirts for 5 Star Gallis, another dancehall singer Poptain, Top Striker and also did Zim Apparel T-shirt designs,” he said.

“My brand is not limited to individuals as I have also worked with several corporate companies. I am confident that there is nothing that designers cannot do as artists have the power to be independent.” Gatsi said he was eyeing the global market.

“My future plans are to ensure that my work is known around the world and establish a wider market for my Christian and street apparel. I will be also doing personalised designs for big companies and brands. I would like to also branch out my designs for flyers and posters to bigger advertising companies,” he said. Gatsi said his passion for art started at a tender age. “I discovered myself at an early age that I was a creative individual and decided to migrate towards the arts. I often went to museums as a teenager and tried my hand at oil painting,” he said.

“As someone who is well acquainted with Photoshop, Corel Draw Illustrator and InDesign which I use for my designs. I decided to establish my printing sales and production career in 2010.”