The Role of Art in Emotional Expression: From Childhood Curiosity to Star On Cliff

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by Imogen Sullivan (June 2025)

 

Star On Cliff founder Clifford Amponsah has been creatively surprising those around him since childhood. His relationship with creativity has always been fluid — expressing itself across different mediums over the years. When reflecting on his journey, Clifford reminisces on his childhood in Ghana, recalling how the freedom to experiment with chemicals at school and building small cars from empty cans with friends planted the seeds of curiosity that would later grow into Star On Cliff — an impressive, culturally vibrant brand that fuses proud storytelling, true identity, and experimental craftsmanship.

 

Launched in 2023, Star On Cliff was born from Clifford’s desire to elevate cultural narratives and bring them into the global spotlight. Having met Clifford back at university, the striking identity of Star On Cliff immediately caught my attention when it appeared on my timeline. Although he specialised in textiles during his studies, the high production value and artistic vision behind Star On Cliff reveal a creative eye that extends beyond fabric alone. For Clifford, this isn’t just fashion - it’s a multi-dimensional expression of culture, history, and modern innovation.

 

Following your dreams starts with trusting your intuition - believing in something bigger than yourself and having the courage to go for it. Whether or not the creative fully understands the cause, it’s brave to make those first moves in response to the unknown. Clifford expresses how this experience was potent “I believe that my fashion journey was divinely inspired, and it has allowed me to cultivate my ideas and express myself creatively. Fashion is now my main focus, and I embrace it fully. This creativity is an integral part of who I am, - there’s no denying its presence in my life.”

 

Family played a crucial role in shaping Clifford’s early understanding of bringing ideas to life. Growing up, he was inspired by a strong entrepreneurial spirit, his grandfather owned a craftsmanship business making steel barrels, his mother was a street trader, and his uncles ran their own construction companies. “Their entrepreneurial spirit has always motivated me,” Clifford says, highlighting the natural aspirations that led him to build his own company and create his brand.

 

But wanting something is one thing — building it is another. When I asked Clifford what pushed him to begin the journey of brand building, he recalled the challenges he faced after graduating from fashion college. Despite his passion and education, finding a job in the industry proved difficult. “I sent out countless CVs but often received no response,” he remembers. However, his time working in a warehouse wasn’t wasted. Instead, it provided valuable experience that influenced his design work. “The skills I gained there, combined with my relentless dedication, have shaped my creative vision.”

 

Determination is a hallmark of any small business founder, and Clifford is no exception. He’s currently juggling multiple jobs — including deliveries — to save up and invest in his brand. “Every day is a hustle, but it’s this drive that fuels my ambition,” he reflects with quiet confidence.

 

Star On Cliff has evolved organically, shaped by Clifford’s curious outlook on life and his diverse experiences. “I want to draw inspiration from my exploration of different cultures,” he shares. “My brand reflects a rich tapestry of cultural influences and sports from around the world. Travel and daily experiences shape my creativity. I intend to infuse that depth into my brand. This multifaceted approach isn’t just part of my vision — it’s the foundation of what I aim to achieve.”

 

Clifford’s creative side doesn’t stop at fashion. He acknowledges that building a fashion brand goes far beyond just clothing. “When it comes to my creative outlet, I have a wealth of ideas. It encompasses everything — especially the marketing of my personal brand,” he says. “I am committed to incorporating my strengths into this venture, such as my skills in painting, creating rap music, and writing books.”

 

The marketing and production value behind Star On Cliff are clear and impactful, designed to resonate with a wide audience — laying strong foundations for the brand’s continued story. I asked Clifford how creativity helps him process reality. Even when faced with challenges, he maintains a positive outlook, seeing struggle as an opportunity for growth. “I believe it’s essential to face daily challenges with a smile, holding on to the conviction that everything will ultimately turn out well,” he calmly explains “Creativity empowers me to think critically, innovate, and develop new solutions to problems — shaping my approach to life and work.”

 

Creative people often have vivid ways of expressing emotions, and finding others who understand that creative side can make you feel seen and heard. I asked Clifford how he values these connections. He humbly reflects on how attending fashion school was instrumental in his development. At first, he wasn’t even sure how to register or where to begin, but university gave him the chance to build relationships within the fashion industry, especially with skilled photographers. “Those collaborations played a big part in my success, and I truly value their contributions,” he says. While he can’t name everyone, he expresses deep gratitude to all those who supported him, especially the talented people he worked with early on. He also credits mentors like Lisa, his college teacher, who guided him throughout his fashion journey. “Every lecture back then still feels important, and I’m grateful for all their support.”

 

The Star On Cliff ethos is admirable, but so is Clifford Amponsah’s brilliant attitude towards life. Where many feel negative or set back, Clifford looks for the positive aspects that ultimately follow these experiences. The branding of his first business, Star On Cliff outlines key attributes of his bright nature — collaging many focal points of his life experiences into modern, experimental, wearable garments. I’m confident this mentality will continue to produce great, meaningfully rich work.