Lee Lapthorne
Lee Lapthorne has been described as a polymath or in the words of International Textiles Magazine, “hard to define, but public artist, textile designer, digital technology pioneer, photographer, curator and catwalk show director are all appropriate titles.” He is the founder and director of the internationally recognised On|Off showcase, where he supports and mentors emerging fashion designers as part of London Fashion Week.
Lee’s artistic outlet has also led him to have a successful career as a textile artist, accessory designer and ceramic artist selling his collections during Paris and London Fashion Week gaining exclusive sales to Harvey Nichols and the prestigious On Pedder store in Hong Kong. His work has featured in Sunday Times Style and he has been quoted in Vogue, Elle, The Telegraph, The Observer, MTV, ITV and BBC. Lee has also had his work exhibited at the Barbican Centre London, Gloucester Cathedral, V&A London and his work is owned by the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust archives.
Lapthorne’s success stems from his unprecedented drive and unique approach to his art. As an academic, he has also worked at many institutions including the Royal College of Arts, University of Westminster, LCF, IMA Istanbul and he has been appointed as an external examiner including at Central Saint Martins, University of Salford and University of the Creative Arts. During his time as Programme Director for the Department of Fashion at Ravensbourne University London he positioned the Fashion course as a world leader in Digital Fashion, gaining international press and improving the student experience, retention, attainment gaps and the NSS scores. Lee secured Ravensbourne as the only University to show on the official London Fashion Week schedule (2021).
“Lapthorne’s talent for realising potential next big things in fashion is always spot on” Wonderland Magazine
“Lapthorne has effectively launched the careers of British fashion stars, JW Anderson, Gareth Pugh and Roksanda Ilincic” afternyne.com
“The very best of international degree and post-graduate talents selected by Lee Lapthorne” Vogue Italia