Credit: Christian Vierig / Getty Images
(CNN) -
Louis Vuitton artistic director and Off-White founder Virgil Abloh died Sunday of cancer, according to a tweet from luxury group LVMH.
He was 41 years old.
"LVMH, Louis Vuitton and Off White are devastated to announce the passing of Virgil Abloh on Sunday, November 28, from cancer, which he had privately fought for several years," the tweet read.
LVMH owns Louis Vuitton, among other luxury brands.
In an accompanying statement, the group also quoted LVMH president Bernard Arnault: "We are all shocked after this terrible news. Virgil was not only a genius designer, a visionary, he was also a man with a beautiful soul and great wisdom. ".
statement read in part.
A Sunday post on Abloh's verified Instagram account confirmed his death and paid tribute to the legendary designer, noting that he had been diagnosed with a rare form of cancer in 2019.
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"We are devastated to announce the passing of our beloved Virgil Abloh, a fiercely devoted father, husband, son, brother and friend. He is survived by his loving wife Shannon Abloh, his children Lowe Abloh and Gray Abloh, his sister Edwina Abloh, his parents Nee and Eunice Abloh, and numerous dear friends and colleagues, "the post reads.
"For over two years, Virgil bravely battled a rare and aggressive form of cancer, cardiac angiosarcoma. He chose to endure his battle in private since his diagnosis in 2019, undergoing numerous challenging treatments, all while running several major institutions spanning the fashion, art, and culture.
Through it all, his work ethic, endless curiosity, and optimism never wavered. Virgil was driven by his dedication to his craft and his mission to open doors to others and create pathways for greater equality in art and culture. He often said, 'Everything I do is for the 17-year-old version of myself,' deeply believing in the power of art to inspire future generations.
"We thank you all for your love and support, and we ask for your privacy as we cry and celebrate Virgil's life."