In this compelling and candid interview, Berny Martin—a Haitian-American fashion designer, style consultant, custom tailor, and founder of LeCatou—shares the inspiring journey that led him to the heart of the fashion industry. He shares fascinating stories from his time in Zimbabwe, where, armed only with patterns cut from newspaper, he navigated power outages and logistical hurdles to create his first clothing range. These formative experiences became invaluable lessons in both business and creativity.
Now with showrooms in major U.S. cities, Berny gives an honest look behind the scenes of the fashion world, discussing the realities of designing not just for art, but for market demand. He reflects on the delicate balance between creative expression and commercial viability and offers thoughtful insights into the current state and future of the fashion industry.
This interview is a refreshing reminder that fashion is far more than glamorous runway shows and glossy magazines — it’s a story of perseverance, adaptation, and passion. Berny Martin’s journey as an international designer, style consultant, custom tailor, and founder of LeCatou is a testament to how obstacles can fuel success, making this conversation a must-watch for anyone interested in the true face of fashion.
https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/petra-sittig/id1670647728
https://open.spotify.com/show/49yzZ0XlGhO0E96PryDZup
https://petrasittigphotography.com/petra-sittig-the-artists-voice
The Artist’s Voice is a platform born from the belief that art is not just a form of expression, but a force that shapes culture, challenges norms, and advances the human story.
In an era that often forgets the soul behind creation, The Artist’s Voice seeks to reclaim space for the artist, to spotlight their labor, their vision, and their indispensable place in the fabric of society. Our mission is rooted in a deep sense of responsibility: to help reawaken public awareness of the value of art, and to honor those who create it as essential contributors to our collective future.
Art moves us. It dares, disrupts, and dreams. Through movement, sound, image, and narrative, it speaks where words fail. Whether it’s the intimacy of theatre, the rhythm of dance, the resonance of music, or the clarity of visual expression, art carries the potential to shift perspectives and awaken empathy.
Through interviews and storytelling, The Artist’s Voice offers a space for artists to share their paths, illuminating the courage, questions, and creative forces behind their work. We uplift both emerging and established voices, honoring the lineage of creators who came before while championing those redefining what’s possible today.
This is more than a platform, it’s a call to remember what art makes possible. I invite you to listen, reflect, and be moved, as we celebrate the artist not only as a visionary, but as a vital worker in the ongoing construction of a more expressive, compassionate world.
Photo Credits by Berny Martin
