Henrik Vibskov
18th-century English painter Thomas Gainsborough once famously said of his competitor Joshua Reynolds, “Damn him, how various he is!” 21st-century designer Henrik Vibskov could provoke similar bursts of envy among his own peers. While the multi-talented Dane is best known for his eponymous fashion label, he is also a fine artist and a musician: he is the drummer of electronic band Trentemøller and exhibits in museums and galleries worldwide.
Vibskov studied fashion design at London’s famed Central Saint Martins college. He moved back to his native country ten years ago to start up his own business. Since then, he has built up a solid reputation as a multidisciplinary artist.
Ever-present, yet at the same time unreachable, Vibskov cuts a striking figure. Standing six feet and seven inches tall, his laissez-faire attitude belies his workaholism. His studio in Copenhagen’s city center is hidden in a cozy red brick building on a back street. It looks like housing for an extended family, and in a way it is: it hosts Vibskov’s army of workers.
When asked whether he defines himself as a designer, a musician or an artist, Vibskov likens his skills to the different ingredients that make a dish special. Read more »
Lee Fields
It’s all about the moment for American blues and soul musician Lee Fields. Instead of making plans, he just lets be – a credo that could describe the development of his career. Starting up in the funk and soul era of the late 1960s, Fields tried turning his passion into an occupation. He released a single in 1969 and his first album in 1973. But he remained virtually unknown. Despite a string of albums and considerable success in the South American blues scene, he still didn’t earn enough to make a living. So Fields turned to real estate. It is only now, decades later, that he is returning to first calling, by restarting his musical career.
His latest album Faithful Man is as strong and emotional as his former albums. The title single, ‘He Still Got It’ sums it up. Meeting Fields is like taking a journey back in time, when music was more pure. The veteran musician walks slowly now, and appears a little shaky during our conversation. But you can tell that the old power is still there, ready to be unleashed the moment the spotlight hits him.
Sporting a suit, a shiny shirt and heeled leather shoes, he performs as though time did not exist. At certain points, his eyes roll up to the heavens as though in prayer. Fields has much to be thankful for. Music has always been his dream, and now, on stage, he has made it real. Read more »
