Thom Solo

Thursday, March 14, 2024

Session Speaker: A conversation with Jill Radsken about creativity and entrepreneurship

Boston-based women’s shoe designer Thom Solo remembers being encouraged to explore his creative side even as a kindergartner at Underwood Elementary School. While attending the Museum of Fine Arts School in Boston, he developed an interest in sculpture and wearable art and began designing footwear. By 2014 he was creating custom shoes for style icons and music influencers including Lady Gaga, Demi Lovato, Kelly Clarkson, Lana Del Rey, and Carrie Underwood.

Jill Radsken is editorial director for the Harvard University Faculty of Arts and Sciences. She was previously a style correspondent for the Boston Globe and prior to that spent 17 years at the Boston Herald, including 14 years as a fashion editor and lifestyle reporter. 

Mr. Solo in conversation with Ms. Radsken will talk about his NPS educational influences, his creative journey, his Covid-19 entrepreneurial comeback, and his work developing manufacturing capabilities and venturing into high-end retail.