Meet Hugo E Silva, a visual artist, stylist, and set designer whose work blends fine art and fashion. With a fresh portfolio and a passion for innovation, Hugo is making huge moves in the creative industry, collaborating with esteemed brands and participating in high-profile events. Hugo’s formal education in fine arts has equipped them with a foundation in various artistic disciplines. Hugo pursued undergraduate and postgraduate degrees at the University of Johannesburg, focusing on printmaking, sculpture, and videography, and exploring philosophical ideologies such as Nihilism and Existentialism.
Hugo has had the privilege of working with prestigious brands and events including Viviers in Milano and South Africa’s Autumn/Winter 24 Fashion Week. In collaboration with Francois Ferreira, Hugo contributed to notable photoshoots for brands like Adidas, Steve Madden, Showmax, and The Manor, ensuring seamless execution and creative alignment. As a Junior Production Designer and Creative Director at Sous Studios, Hugo demonstrated proficiency in administrative tasks and supported on-set production and styling.
At Viviers Studios, Hugo played a key role in conceiving, styling, and presenting garments for Milano Fashion Week 2024 and South African Fashion Week A/W 2024. They coordinated photo shoots and promotional events, such as the Cape Town Art Fair 2024, showcasing strong organizational skills and attention to detail. Hugo also handled administrative tasks proficiently, including email correspondence, appointment scheduling, and meticulous record-keeping, ensuring seamless studio operations. Additionally, they provided essential support in garment adjustments and alterations, ensuring an optimal fit for both models and clients.
Hugo’s creative endeavours extend beyond fashion and styling. In the exhibition “Encounters with the (Im)material,” curated by Prof. Alison Kearney at Wits University, Hugo explored the connections between material and immaterial elements in art. Assisting Usha Seejarim, Hugo contributed to the creation of “A Bouquet of Mother’s Milk,” showcased at the Turbine Art Fair 2023. At Documenta Fifteen in Kassel, Germany, Hugo collaborated with students and artists from South Africa, exploring the theme of waste reclaimers and ensuring authenticity and non-exploitative representation.
To explore Hugo’s portfolio further, visit their website.
