Happy to welcome @brandylaa as the new creative director of our Fashion Department! Wen will also teach and mentor students. In doing so, he succeeds Walter Van Beirendonck, who has led the Fashion Department since 2007. Brandon Wen: ‘I could not be more excited! This is a dream beyond dreams that I take with enormous gratitude, gravity and joy. I will focus on the traditions of creativity and artistry that made me fall in love with this Academy. At the intersection of fantasy and reality, we will create another generation of designers and artists focused on authenticity, creativity and fun, that have the tools and chutzpah to make a space for themselves in the world, setting that example myself. We will grow together and redefine our sense of wonder and beauty in fashion. I am audacious as hell as a person and an artist as I intend to be as a teacher and creative director. Filled with humility and pride, I cannot wait to begin.’ Johan Pas, head of the Academy and chairman of the selection committee: 'Brandon Wen convinced us with his generous creativity, strong drive, fresh ideas and his great connecting power. Exactly what the Academy and our Fashion Department needs. With Brandon Wen we choose radically for an international, interdisciplinary and innovative profile.' Photo by @thisisakhilbabu for @royalacademyantwerp #antwerpfashion #antwerpfashionacademy