South African born Deon Redman has been actively involved in the fashion industry for over 12 years. New York and London-based creative director has produced seasonal Fashion Week designer shows in all four international capitals. He has also produced Durban's most memorable Durban Designer Collections, the largest and longest running single-fashion event in South Africa.
Over the years, the African Fashion International (AFI) in-house creative director has been working with the movers and shaker of the industry, which includes Julien Macdonald, Jonathan Saunders, Viktor and Rolf, Diesel, Gucci, Prada, and Yves Saint Laurent.
Apart from working with AFI, the cute dude had also directed the inaugural preview day of Audi Joburg Fashion Week at Walter Sisulu Square of Dedication in Soweto. The CEO of Deon Redman Creative Production (DRCP), a company that it’s key focus is to create coherent, international standard shows for designers, promote and build their brand, recently came to Nigeria.
For the first time, the high-taste creative director produced the Nigeria’s Nest Super Model contest 2008 and was also listed among executive profile judges.
His keen appreciation of contemporary design, understanding of modern technology and thorough approach to event Management create unique event experiences marked by their stylish innovation.
Read on…………..
FAMILY BACKGROUND AND EDUCATION BACKGROUND
Born in Durban, South Africa, I am the eldest of 3 sons. We grew up between Durban and Sydney.
YOUR INFLUENCE IN THE FASHION INDUSTRY
I have worked as a freelance fashion producer in New York, London, Paris, Milan, Tokyo, Los Angeles, Spain, Greece, Brazil and throughout South Africa. In February this year I took up position as Creative Director for African Fashion International (AFI) - www.africanfashioninternational.com, overseeing all national Fashion Weeks. This includes overseeing show producers, design of all the shows, model casting etc.
HOW DO YOU SEE NIGERIA NEXT SUPER MODEL?
As my first time in Nigeria, I am very excited to have seen the young models here. I think they have great potential to work in South Africa and possibly in other international markets.
YOU HAVE WORKED SOME NIGERIA SUPER MODELS LIKE BUNMI, BRAIN TO MENTION A FEW, HOW HAS IT BEEN WORKING WITH THEM?
I find them a pleasure to work with. Not only do they look great on the catwalk, but they are professional at all times.
WHAT DO YOU HAVE TO SAY ABOUT NIGERIA MODELING INDUSTRY AND WHAT DO YOU THINK IT’S LACKING?
The industry in Nigeria has great potential. The models have unique looks. They need to be exposed to the rest of the world - be seen by those industries. Joan is aware of this and is really is to be commended for opening up this access for models in Nigeria.
YESTERDAY YOU SIGNED IN SOME MODEL FOR THE UPCOMING FASHION SHOW IN S.A, WHAT ARE WE EXPECTING TO SEE?
I saw one or two girls at the open casting that I think were very promising. I will present them to producers in South Africa and we will be looking to book them for the upcoming Fashion Week shows. So you expect to see them working with some of the top South African and international designers there.
WHAT DOES THE FUTURE HOLD FOR THEM IN S.A MODELING INDUSTRY?
The SA model industry has successfully made the transition to international markets. Agencies in South Africa work consistently with agencies throughout the world, and conversely many international models work and are based in SA. As a result, South Africa has had many successful models that have become top supermodels.
I NOTICE THAT YOU HAVE A HIGH TASTE OF SELECTION AND AMONG ALL THE MALE MODELS THAT WAS CHOSEN, YOU ONLY PICKED THREE, SO WHAT DO YOU LOOK OUT FOR IN A MODEL?
A great model needs to have a 'wow' factor about them. It’s hard to define. Of course, they need the right height, good body proportion, and unique strong look. Its also about confidence and presence.
HOW WOULD YOU DEFINE FASHION?
Fashion is a serious global industry. It accounts for over 400 billion US dollars a year. It affects many aspects of everyone lives as it reflects the mood of the times and expresses that in a creative way that people incorporate into how they express themselves.
FAVOURITE PIECE OF CLOTHING?
Black Dior suite. I also am never without my mirrored Tom Ford pilot sunglasses.
SIGNATURE SCENT
I wear a few perfumes, but right now I quite like Black Orchid by Tom Ford.
ROLE MODELS
I don't really have role models. I have been fortunate enough to work with some amazing people all over the world. The qualities I admire are originality, innovative creativity, drive, courage, strength, and truth.
FAVOURITE DESIGNER
Dior menswear
PROJECTION INTO THE FUTURE
I try never to plan too far ahead. I am currently working on projects for the next 2 years in South Africa, Europe and the US.
WHAT AND WHO INSPIRES YOU AND WHERE DO YOU DRAW YOUR INSPIRATIONS FROM?
So many things - art, music. I am consistently inspired by other people. Though, especially those with the vision and strength to innovate and create change for the better.
