World famous South African DJ Black Coffee announced he was building an art, music and fashion school in Joburg, now he plans to make it a neighbourhood too.
DJ Black Coffee sat down with Billboard to talk about the new art, music and fashion school he plans on building in Johannesburg. During the interview, he also revealed that he would love to build an entire neighbourhood around the school.
The school is being built in an abandoned part of Johannesburg and its presence could breathe new life into the surrounding area.
The school is being designed by Virgil Abloh, the new Louis Vuitton menswear director. The school is set to become the hub of culture and surrounding it will be a neighbourhood that thrives on art, music and fashion.
“We’ve been working on building a music, art and fashion school in a deserted part of Johannesburg as a collaboration between myself and fellow South Africans artist Nelson Makamo and clothing designer Laduma Ngxokolo with the hope of turning the neighbourhood around.”
“Once the school project is complete, with our partners we endeavour to take this even further and establish an entire neighbourhood. Virgil and leading South African architecture firm SAOTA are helping us with the design of the institution. The opportunities and spaces will offer cultural experiences, boutique stores, restaurants and a learning center.”
This neighbourhood could cement the arts in South Africa, with a massive backing by the world famous DJ, the area could become as equally famous as some of the hottest art districts around the world. Black Coffee believes that artists and musicians will thrive in a neighbourhood like this.
“I think that a thriving creative community and strong nightlife ecosystem is the most ideal environment for any artistic personality to be a part of. What could be more supportive and encouraging than being in an environment where you are surrounded by like-minded, passionate individuals who constantly challenge and inspire you to be the best version of yourself?”