Daria Shapovalova on Fashion Insiders: Marc Ascoli, creative director

What is the role of art director in fashion? A coach, a friend, a maestro of an orchestra - all this can be attributed to Marc Ascoli, a driving force behind some of fashion's most provocative and memorable imagery, as he is described by the world famous SHOWSTUDIO. Ascoli also has a unique sense for new talents - he discovered an array of photographers, who are now shaping the face of the industry; David Sims, Nick Knight, Mert & Marcus and Max Vadukul, all started their careers hand-in-hand with Marc. His work for and Jil Sander, Yohji Yamamoto, Martine Sitbon, are now part of a fashion history. His collaboration with Martine Sitbon, from Rue du Mail, is a very important part of his life - both personal and professional. He has been working with Rue du Mail since 1987 as an image director. Marc Ascoli is a rare breed in fashion, he is not worried about his own fame, his focus is making other creators famous. We met with Marc to discuss his penchant for new talents, the state of creative minds today and the secrets behind his creative process.