Designer Wendell Rodricks talks about magical places, the smell of fresh laundry, cooking for a hundred people and what Christ means to him
Designer Wendell Rodricks talks about magical places, the smell of fresh laundry, cooking for a hundred people and what Christ means to him
He breathes Goa. Lives in a huge, beautiful house there. Feels like he is in Disneyland when he visits Mumbai or even Jaipur. Enjoys life with his partner Jerome. Claims he is a tech idiot. And yet, has been engaged in a verbal duel with internet junkies on his work, sexuality and beliefs. We interviewed the soft-spoken, ever-polite designer over email because he is afraid of being misquoted over "sensitive" questions.
If I say, most of us take up a profession for the love of it, what would you say?
I would say that most of us take up a profession that pays. A few of us are lucky to work in a job that is a passion. I am in that fortunate lot.
ADVERTISEMENT
Staying away from over-the-top creations, yet making the audience at fashion shows go, "Wow". How tough is it to create what you believe in and yet make it saleable?
I have never relied on hype. I let my work do the talking. As a person I am very content. Though I gave India minimalism, resort wear and eco-friendly clothes, I let the press notice and write that. I cannot understand Page 3 types who party everyday and have nothing of value hanging in a store nor contribute little to this great country's clothing heritage. I began with a certain philosophy in mind way back in 1988 and have over 20 years never broken my rules. It is tempting to play to the market's money-making possibilities. But money is not what life is all about. Honestly, it is not difficult for me to do simple saleable cloths. It's an extension of my mind that goes out on ramp.
While many designers are based in Mumbai or Delhi, you stay in Goa. Don't you feel you are out of the hustle-bustle?
I am Goan 100 per cent and proud that my state is so beautiful. Goa has given me inspiration, and isolation from some of the madness of Bombay or Delhi. Though I must say I love Bombay (and most cities). After the quiet of Goa, I feel like a child in Disneyland whenever I visit Bombay or Chennai or even Jaipur. These places are teeming with energy. On the other hand, Goa gives me a peaceful energy and a very pure, yogic vibe.
If you were told you are moody, how would you react?
All creative people are entitles to their quirks. I have mine too. Most times I am dreaming. Sometimes people feel I am avoiding them. But I am simply dreaming. I am a Gemini and can get bored very easily if there is no energy or by people who have a negative energy. If I feel someone is being negative, I clam up and shut out their bad vibes. I have no time for unhappiness or unpleasantness. It is simpler to be honest, frank and fearless. Sometimes that gets me into trouble. I recall writing a frank letter to one of the top fashion magazines that was meant only for the editorial team. That's because I believe in telling people who can rectify the situation instead of bitching behind back. Someone sneakily leaked the email out to everyone. That's when I can get really upset. Here was I trying to tell the persons concerned how to rectify a situation and some idiot causes trouble and sensation.
You must have a beautiful house in Goa I remember something from a TV interview you did a while ago. On a day off, what is it that helps you relax?
My house is my home. I do not look at it as some great object of beauty. I love my garden and parts of the house which are truly relaxing. But it's a house. A material object. Frankly it's too big. I may sell it.
I do cook and clean and I love ironing clothes. It's therapeutic to see all those crinkles vanish and to smell that fresh laundry detergent perfume. I like to play with my pets. Sometimes you will find me in their baskets with a flurry of fur all over me. I hang out a lot with my close friends. I like artists, writers and older people with rich life experiences. And I love, adore, worship children. On Sundays our pool is full of kids and grown-ups behaving like kids. When we entertain we do not ever order food from out. Jerome (his partner) and I can cook for a hundred people without any stress. I relax by reading a lot. I watch art cinema, hear all types of music. As a Goan, I can relax by doing nothing... just admiring the sky or the birds or the trees or a river.
You have been debating sexuality and the church over the internet. Tell me more about that.
Only God should and can be the judge, not people. I live my life openly and honestly. As for sexuality, it is a personal matter. I would rather talk about love. Sex can stay in the bedroom where it belongs. To love someone is to experience a beautiful God gifted emotion.
But why do you feel the need to debate online? Is that the only way to make yourself heard without actually putting yourself out there?
I am a tech idiot. Someone sent me the link and I replied. That's it. I have no time to chat or go online. I, in fact, do not know how to chat. Last year someone told me that a devious person has stolen my name and goes into chat rooms. I do not have time or energy to report this cyber crime. The internet can be a wonderful and diabolical place. Take your pick.
On the website, you also mentioned the church and its beliefs often. How is it for you to be a believer and yet go against what the church preaches?
I respect the positive that Christianity gives: schools, hospitals, charity, compassion and solace to the needy. That is the true Christ that gets my respect and worship.
How it is to be in love with Jerome for so many years? What is it that keeps you going?
More than love, the key word is respect. There are some remarkable qualities in this person. Apart from this we have the same passions: Climbing mountains, visiting exotic places, history, culture, reading, cuisine, art.
Enjoying life, the world and people comes easily to us. It is a blessing to find a soulmate and enjoy this incredible journey called life!
Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!
