Ted Arthur Master of craft

What has become a lifelong career for Ted first sprung up as a hobby at a tender age. He always loved design, fashion and art, and shoes and says these loves guided him down the path his life has taken. As the years progressed and his love and appreciation for creating leather accessories expanded, he decided to take on his creations full time but says this decision was soon met with some challenges, namely keeping up with the manpower requisite to produce his imaginative handcrafted products. He boasts that his innovation is driven by his desire for a high standard of exclusivity and says he has reengineered his products by colour, style, comfort, presentation, and branding over the years, which sets his creations apart from similar offerings on the market.

His process of designing and creating comes however it must – sometimes “from the top of your head [but] there are times you have to put pencil to paper and think”. After making his preferred patterns, he transfers said patterns to the leather and the process of production begins. “I import most of my materials from North America and South America. The designs are done by myself – I am inspired by the natural things around me, nature, and people.”

He elaborates that he draws inspiration for his designs from his surroundings – the beautiful flora and fauna of Tobago, which translates into colourful bursts of leather flowers or palm tree motifs on his many pieces. His work is also driven by the people and lives they lead on the island he calls home. He says creating leather pieces is one of his life’s passions and although he has come up against challenges in the last two decades of his work, “sticking to the programme” has kept him afloat during discouraging times. “Stay focused, do research, and ask for help from those who are masters in your craft … and use every opportunity to make your work known,” he advises other would-be entrepreneurs and start ups.

His products are designed to catch the eyes and garner compliments. “They are structured differently from what you would normally see on the market and are designed so people can ask, ‘Where did you get that? I want one!’” he says of the feelings and actions he hopes to inspire through his designs. He adds that his unusual designs, creative uses of colour, and the people that wear his creations are what set his leather collection apart from others.

While his business had a humble genesis, over the years his clientele has included US President Barack Obama and First Lady, Michelle Obama, the Queen of England, and many of the prominent performers who visit our shores during the annual Tobago Jazz Festival. Such accolades have not left him in a lofty position, however. He cites his humility and unpretentious spirit as one of the secrets to his success: “In this life,” he begins, “being humble is a gift we should all try to cultivate; it helps us along life’s path [more than we sometimes realise].”

He quotes statistical reviews that cite international fashion brands such as Louis Vuitton and Chanel penetrating the markets of over 135 countries. “We can safely say, without a doubt, that Ted Arthur has acquisitions in about as many countries, as far as Afghanistan, thanks to Internet Services,” says the proud owner, echoing that ‘Trini’ clients can now visit his store in Port of Spain to indulge in his high end creations.

In his words, his best qualities are his natural affinity for hard work and having an honest and transparent approach through his personal and professional interactions. “[These qualities] do well for you as an entrepreneur,” he presses, “as it takes you a longer way when they can be seen.”

His final advice to local creators, artists, and artisans is to always strive to put your best foot forward, take no shortcuts, and produce work that you are proud and confident in. “And whatever you do make sure it’s felt in your heart,” he says sagely, “because if you feel it… most likely others will, too.”