Born and raised in Goaso, a small Ghanaian town in the Ahafo region, Davidson Atanko’s passion for fashion ignited during his high school years, and while most of his peers were navigating adolescence, Davidson was already envisioning a unique path to the future. Completing his schooling in 2015, he embarked on a transformative journey that led him to Accra in 2020, where he breathed life into his dream: Complex Department.
Navigating the transition from a remote area to an urban centre wasn’t easy. Davidson faced challenges, from limited access to resources to the daunting task of building a brand from scratch, however, he forged on.
When asked to define Complex Department, he says “I’m the type of person who appreciates unique things, you know, one-of-a-kind stuff like unique materials and all that.” He explained how “clothes are more than just clothes; they’re a culture, our way of life.” His desire to create something one-of-a-kind by blending African textile weaving with contemporary style, laid the foundation for his brand.
Complex Department is a rebellion against homogeneity. At its core lies Davidson’s commitment to crafting garments that tell stories, evoke emotions, and defy convention. All whilst employing sustainable and ethical practices, reflecting Davidson’s deep-rooted values.
Complex Department’s Creative process
How Complex Department functioned was a question of sustainability and ethics. The complex department style relies on imagination “It all starts with the story—what do we want to portray, what’s the message?” and “We think about the fabric. Do we design our textile, or do we source it?” as creative director Davidson Atanko, told me.
Instagram became Davidson’s platform for networking and connecting with influencers. His outreach efforts bore fruit when the musical group NSG responded positively to his collaboration proposal. This collaboration, along with others, catapulted Complex Department into the spotlight, culminating in a pop-up event attended by luminaries like Dave Chappelle.
Davidson’s creative process is meticulous, from conceptualising designs to sourcing eco-friendly materials. He envisions a future where aspiring designers have the resources they need to thrive. Which is why he founded the Complex Academy, a haven for budding creatives seeking guidance and support.
Looking ahead, Davidson’s vision for the Complex Department is ambitious. He plans to expand the brand’s reach through pop-up events and strategic collaborations. His ultimate goal is to establish a production facility and retail store to create a vibrant ecosystem.
For Davidson, being creative isn’t just about designing clothes; it’s also about empowering others to pursue their passions.
The Complex Academy
The Complex Academy is an initiative aimed at empowering self-taught creatives to realise their dreams of building successful brands. Offering invaluable resources, guidance, and industry connections, the Academy serves as a bridge between aspiring designers and established networks. With a focus on accessibility and inclusivity, this initiative provides a platform for passionate individuals to gain the knowledge and support they need to thrive in the creative industry.
“The goal of the academy is to empower self-taught creatives like myself. It’s about providing resources and guidance for those passionate about starting their brands. The Academy will offer valuable insights and connections, bridging the gap between aspiring creatives and industry networks. And the best part? It’s free—no tuition fees.” in closing he said, “The day I launched the Academy, I felt like if my day ended then, I’d fulfilled my purpose as a creative.”
The Future of Complex Department
“We’re teaming up with Boys of Soweto for a major showcase in South Africa. Then, it’s off to Paris, Amsterdam, and New York for more collaborations. Exciting times ahead, including a top-secret project involving skateboarders”
In addition to the pop-up, he has a panel discussion coming up in South Africa to bridge the gap and meet investors.
“I’m planning to establish a large creative space in Ghana, addressing the scarcity of factory facilities. It’s not just for Complex Department but also for other creatives to develop their collections. This space will be a hub for production and collaboration, fostering creativity and innovation”
Davidson’s advice for young creatives
I posed this question to Davidson during our interview because of how passionate he was about community and giving back. He replied:
“For someone starting, my advice is simple: Just start. Don’t wait for the perfect moment because it may never come. Begin working on your idea now, regardless of whether you have the funds. My approach has always been about making things happen, even without money. Talk to people, be resourceful, and don’t underestimate the power of starting small. Repeat what works, prioritise quality, and take that first step. That’s how you turn your ideas into reality.”
Edited by Amirah Deji-Abiola & Nasir Ahmed Achile
