Harnessing Craftsmanship and Creativity to Shape the Future

Renowned for his ability to blend commercial acumen with artistic vision, Samuel Ross is reshaping how we perceive craftsmanship and luxury in modern times. With an emphasis on inclusivity and heritage, he crafts experiences that resonate deeply with audiences worldwide.

From Home-Schooling to Global Influence

Growing up in a liberal household, Samuel Ross's early years were marked by unconventional education. This period fostered his curiosity and laid the foundation for his diverse career path. His parents instilled values of exploration and creativity, which became integral to his work ethic later in life. By embracing subjects like art, design, and literature without restriction, Ross cultivated an open-minded approach to learning.

This upbringing encouraged him to view disciplines such as fashion, architecture, and industrial design not as separate entities but as interconnected forms of expression. When reflecting on his childhood, Ross highlights the importance of understanding context—whether it be social, historical, or cultural—and applying this knowledge to create meaningful projects.

The Turning Point: From Graphic Design to Fashion

After completing his studies in graphic design and illustration at De Montfort University, Ross ventured into product design. However, he soon realized the limitations imposed by traditional frameworks. Seeking greater freedom, he established several online platforms dedicated to exploring various cultural domains. These initiatives caught the eye of Virgil Abloh, then working under Kanye West’s Donda label.

Their collaboration transformed both professionally and personally. Under Abloh’s guidance, Ross honed his skills while contributing significantly to groundbreaking ventures like Off-White. Their relationship transcended conventional roles; they shared ambitious goals aimed at democratizing industries traditionally closed off to marginalized voices. Even after Abloh's passing, Ross carries forward their mission through his own endeavors.

A-COLD-WALL*: Crafting Identity Through Clothing

In 2014, Samuel Ross launched A-COLD-WALL*, a fashion label rooted in storytelling reflective of British Caribbean identity. The brand quickly gained traction due to its innovative use of materials, silhouettes inspired by Brutalist architecture, and color palettes evoking urban landscapes. At its core lay Ross’s belief in clothing as a tool for navigating societal hierarchies within the UK context.

By merging personal narratives with broader socio-political themes, A-COLD-WALL* resonated globally. Its success underscored Ross’s talent for translating complex ideas into wearable art forms. After achieving peak revenue figures exceeding £16 million in 2023, Ross strategically exited the business to focus on new ventures aligning more closely with his evolving interests.

SR_A: Elevating Craftsmanship for Future Generations

With proceeds from winning the prestigious Hublot Prize in 2019, Ross founded SR_A, an industrial design company committed to redefining notions of craft and luxury. Partnering exclusively with artisanal manufacturers ensures high standards while preserving traditional techniques. Collaborations span tech giants like Apple, watchmakers like Hublot, and fragrance houses like Acqua di Parma.

Each project undertaken by SR_A exemplifies Ross’s dedication to quality and innovation. For instance, his recent installation "Transposition" created for The Balvenie during Milan Design Week showcased intricate copper structures mimicking distillation processes. Visitors immersed themselves in multisensory environments combining visual, auditory, and tactile elements—all designed to celebrate whisky-making traditions.

Promoting Diversity in Creative Fields

Beyond commercial achievements, Samuel Ross prioritizes nurturing emerging talents through initiatives such as the Black British Artist Grants program. Established post-2020, this grant supports young creatives pursuing careers in fine arts, music, writing, and beyond. Ross advocates for regional identities over homogenized aesthetics, encouraging individuals to embrace their unique perspectives.

His curation of the London Design Biennale further amplifies this commitment. Themed “Surface Reflections,” the exhibition hosted at Somerset House highlights works by designers representing diverse backgrounds. By providing visibility and opportunities, Ross aims to sustain progress within the arts sector, ensuring Britain remains competitive internationally.