Naked Art
who are they?
Designer, Nana Charles Holdbrook started his career in marketing when he realised that the prospects in this field were limited in his home country. Born in Accra, Ghana, he was raised in a creative household. His father worked for over 30 years as a clothing designer and tailor servicing a wide range of clients from around the world including Asia and Europe. He also educated a team of tailors one of which would end up mentoring his son.
With the assistance of his father and godfather, Nana created his own fashion label and dedicated all of his efforts into making this dream a reality. Mantse Klodin translates to ‘king garments’. He believes that this represents the level of quality and expertise he along with his family’s legacy in the field, bring to the table. He describes his studio as a small ‘palace’. This is also in line with his name Nana, which translates to ‘king’ in his local dialect language Ga.
what they do?
Each ‘hand-crafted’ design expresses his African influence alongside inspiration from western cultures. He aims for his designs to be transferable between both cultures. This, he says, is because he always wants to promote his African heritage whilst also paying homage to all Africans throughout the Atlantic world. The garments he produces range from his favourite kaftan design to bags and shoes where, in many cases, he hand-stiches his fabrics to bring forth a unique style.
He often visits historical landmarks that relate to the stories he was taught about his forefathers who were sold to the west. He admires the strength and perseverance that these tribes would possess and often uses this as his inspiration and drive to continuing moving forward.
what we created?
Together, we created the first collection of the hauteghetto. Using whatsapp video, video and pictures, we were able to create a time of clothing a month. Through shipping we are able to send items across the Atlantic world monthly.
what’s next?
Mantse Klodin wants to evolve internationally. through connections with university arts London we are trying to give Nana the exposure to an international audience.
