It has been reported that legendary designer and visionary Virgil Abloh has passed away. According to People, his family said he was diagnosed with “a rare, aggressive form of cancer” called cardiac angiosarcoma.
In a statement they said:
“We are devastated to announce the passing of our beloved Virgil Abloh, a fiercely devoted father, husband, son, brother, and friend,” the Off-White designer’s family said Sunday in a statement posted to Abloh’s Instagram page.
Abloh’s family revealed the designer was diagnosed with “a rare, aggressive form of cancer” called cardiac angiosarcoma. He underwent “numerous challenging treatments” all while continuing his work in fashion and art.
“Through it all, his work ethic, infinite curiosity, and optimism never wavered,” the family said. “Virgil was driven by his dedication to his craft and to his mission to open doors for others and create pathways for greater equality in art and design.”
The family added that Abloh believed in art’s ability “to inspire future generations” and often said, “Everything I do is for the 17-year-old version of myself.”
“We thank you all for your love and support, and we ask for privacy as we grieve and celebrate Virgil’s life,” they concluded.
LVMH also posted an announcement on their Instagram:
LVMH, Louis Vuitton and Off White are devastated to announce the passing of Virgil Abloh, on Sunday, November 28th, of cancer, which he had been battling privately for several years.
« We are all shocked after this terrible news. Virgil was not only a genius designer, a visionary, he was also a man with a beautiful soul and great wisdom. The LVMH family joins me in this moment of great sorrow, and we are all thinking of his loved ones after the passing of their husband, their father, their brother or their friend. »
Bernard Arnault.
and press play below:
He also served as chief executive officer of the Off-White label, which he founded in 2012.
Abloh is survived by his wife Shannon Abloh, children Lowe Abloh and Grey Abloh, sister Edwina Abloh, and parents Nee and Eunice Abloh, per the family’s statement.
And this energy, my dear friend Virgil Abloh, will be your legacy because you are the main source of inspiration of a new generation of creators touched by your artistic and kaleidoscopic sensibility.
— Nina Garcia (@ninagarcia) November 28, 2021
May he rest in peace.