Ghanaian Designer Kofi Ansah Passes On

This past weekend, Ghanaian fashion designer Kofi Ansah passed away. A pioneer in modern African fashion & design, Ansah had been a tireless force in promoting and exposing West African styles on the international stage. Born to Ghanaian artists, (a classical musician and a photographer) Ansah graduated from London's Chelsea School of Art before deciding to return to his native country to start a line and help develop its national fashion industry. Ansah started with his freshman label ArtDress Ltd., later expanding into an eponymous line through which he organized and gave workshops to young and emerging Ghanaian designers. He also created and served as president of the Federation of African Designers. In terms of style, he's known for his craftsmanship in womenswear, highlighted by an undeniable signature touch — a great combination of Western contemporary design and traditional West African art. Scroll through our gallery to view some of his designs and if you want to talk about it, tweet @okayafrica with #kofiansah.