I logged onto twitter recently and Nicole Richie's newborn son was already a trending topic. Congratulations to her, etc. Not to do down the arrival of a new heir to the Good Charlotte back catalogue, but it was a day for perhaps an even more culturally significant birth - the launch of True Sterling.

At the Bacon Street Project in Shoreditch last night a new star in the world of art and design was born. Artist, creative entrepreneur and now, brand, Orlando 'True' Sterling launched his streetwear collection and photography exhibition to a packed gallery. His work combines the glamour and pop-cultural references of hip hop and street art with a slightly bleaker perspective on the landscapes from which he takes his inspiration.

Sterling admits that the source of his ideas comes mainly from the surrounding environment of home. "It was a place of negative outlook, lost hope, and abundant dreams," says the artist. "I wanted the True Sterling brand to act as force for merging visions and hopes into reality. And I want it to be a dedication the realisation of my own visions to those individuals out there who are challenged by the reality of making their dreams come true."

Triumph out of adversity is a strong theme throughout Sterling's body of work. T-shirts are colourful and witty - topless women, oversized sneakers, block colours - fun. But the photographic element of his work is an edgier face of the same coin. Urban landscapes, deprivation, vandalism are all framed to give the perspective of an insider describing an environment to an outsider, rather than as a commentary by an outsider looking in. The images belie a familiarity with their captor, who, once he has captured them, has then reworked them to give a creative treatment which reveal his origins as a graphic designer.

A first class honours graduate, Sterling's dedication and determination is evident in his passion for success in everything he does. He's currently putting the final touches to his website where his prints, apparel, and designs will be available to buy online. "I'm a strong believer in infinite possibilities," he says "If you want to achieve what may seem impossible, you've got to first be open to infinite possibilities."

The 'True' part of the name is a testament to Sterling's relentless optimism and enduring belief in his own mission. "The definition of True Sterling is 'to be true to oneself'," he explains. As someone who struggled against adversity and has managed to achieve his goals, 'True Sterling' has become more than a name for his brand, it has become a mantra to inspire others to do the same. "It's what's brought me to this moment," says Sterling. "You've got to always maintain focus, stay hungry, never get comfortable and, most of all, stay true to your vision."

To purchase artwork and apparel, visit www.truesterling09.com

Related Links:

• General LDN Launch With PONR T-shirt
• King Apparel Unveil SS11 Collection
• An Exhibition For Hipstamatics
• Bench Tees & Jeans
• Leon Cato Photography Exhibition

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