Africa Day, celebrated on May 25th, commemorates the founding of the Organisation of African Unity back in 1963, now known as the African Union. It’s a day to celebrate the African unity, culture, and progress. The Soigné team is taking this opportunity to spotlight influencers, designers, and artists who are making waves in global culture, arts, and fashion. From the rhythmic dance floors of Malawi to the silver screens of Durban, and the fashion capitals of the world, Africa’s traditions and innovative spirit continue to captivate and inspire.
Looking back at Africa’s influence in high-fashion, there have been many instances of luxury designers taking inspiration from the aesthetics and rich heritage of African culture, infusing their collections with elements inspired by the continent. Take Dior’s Cruise 2020 collection, for instance, where Maria Grazia Chiuri collaborated with African artisans to create stunning pieces featuring intricate patterns and traditional wax prints, all showcased in the mesmerising backdrop of Marrakesh, Morocco. Similarly, Valentino’s Spring/Summer 2016 collection, designed by Pierpaolo Piccioli and Maria Grazia Chiuri, brought African craftsmanship to the runway with earthy tones, tribal patterns, and Maasai-inspired jewellery. Louis Vuitton’s Men’s Spring/Summer 2017 collection, under Kim Jones, celebrated the natural beauty and cultural diversity of Africa with safari themes and animal prints, reflecting Jones’ childhood experiences in Kenya and Botswana. Even Chanel’s Metiers d’Art 2020/2021 collection by Virginie Viard drew inspiration from African art, featuring bold prints and geometrical patterns.
The African Visual Arts on Global Stage
In the visual arts landscape, African artists are making waves and continue to send powerful messages of cultural identity and unity. Take Njideka Akunyili Crosby, the Nigerian-born, Los Angeles-based artist whose intricate collages blend Nigerian and Western imagery.
Her work, featured in prestigious venues like the Whitney Museum of American Art, beautifully captures the complex interplay of cultures in the modern African diaspora.
The Venice Biennale, one of the most prestigious art exhibitions in the world, has also increasingly spotlighted African artists. In the 2019 edition, Ghana made a memorable debut with a pavilion curated by Nana Oforiatta Ayim. The exhibition showcased artists like El Anatsui, whose massive installations crafted from recycled materials explore themes of transformation and sustainability, and Ibrahim Mahama, whose jute sack installations delve into issues of labor and trade.
The “IM(PULSION)” exhibition, organised by the collective Interval, which ran until September 22, 2022 brought together Moroccan talents. This digital exhibition featured artists such as Yasmine Hatimi, who showcased mixed media works exploring identity and cultural intersections in Morocco; Hicham Matini, whose paintings and sculptures reflect the various aspects of modern Moroccan society; Amine El Gotaibi, with digital installations addressing technological impacts on Moroccan youth; Mo Baala, whose photography series captured urban Moroccan life; Yacout Kabbaj, who used textiles to narrate Moroccan heritage; and Amina Agueznay, who merged traditional Moroccan craftsmanship with modern design in her jewellery and installations. The exhibition aimed to bridge the gap between artists and the public through digital platforms, making African art more accessible and engaging, particularly for younger audiences. Proceeds were directed to the Institute Tahar Sebti, a non-profit school for vulnerable and disabled children in Morocco.
The recent Art Dubai 2024 also stood as a testament to the evolving landscape of contemporary African art. The fair, known for its eclectic and inclusive approach, highlighted the contributions of several African artists, ensuring they were celebrated alongside their global counterparts. One of the highlights at Art Dubai 2024 was Afriart Gallery’s presentation of Ugandan modernist painter Samuel Kakaire. This solo exhibition, part of the fair’s curated ‘Art Dubai Modern’ section, offered an in-depth look at Kakaire’s work in modernist painting.
Speaking of Art Dubai 2024, Efie Gallery’s return to Art Dubai showcased the remarkable talents of contemporary African artists, featuring renowned figures like El Anatsui, Aïda Muluneh, Maggie Otieno, and Yaw Owusu. Held at Booth B14, their striking works explored themes of identity, social issues, and transformation, reflecting the diverse nature of African artistry. Located in Dubai’s Al Quoz Creative Zone, this presentation highlighted the significant contributions of African artists to the global art scene.
African DJs and Musicians
African DJs and musicians are seriously rocking it when it comes to promoting African culture around the world. You’ve got big names like Black Coffee, Burna Boy, and Wizkid already killing it on the global stage, but there are so many fresh faces making waves too. Take DJ Lag from South Africa, for example – the king of Gqom music, his beats are so infectious they’ve taken him from local townships all the way to Coachella! Then there’s Sho Madjozi, also from South Africa. Her hit “John Cena” went viral, and she mixes Tsonga culture with rap in a way that’s totally unique and super catchy. Simi from Nigeria is another star to watch – her soulful voice and heartfelt lyrics mix traditional Nigerian sounds with modern pop, and it’s impossible not to love. And don’t forget DJ Maphorisa, who’s a major player in the Amapiano scene. His collaborations have taken this cool blend of deep house, jazz, and lounge music from South Africa to the rest of the world. Just to name a few, these artists are showcasing the best of African culture, and it’s so exciting to see.
African Designers to Have on Your Radar
African fashion designers are revolutionizing the global fashion scene with their innovative and culturally rich designs. Adebayo Oke-Lawal of Orange Culture in Nigeria stands out for his gender-fluid pieces that blend high fashion with vibrant Nigerian prints, earning international acclaim.
Lisa Folawiyo
Lisa Folawiyo’s Jewel by Lisa label creatively uses Ankara fabrics to produce trendy designs showcased in fashion capitals like New York, London, and Milan.
Sarah Diouf
Sarah Diouf’s Tongoro Studio from Senegal highlights African craftsmanship, creating whimsical and distinctive luxury pieces.
Laduma Ngxokolo
Laduma Ngxokolo’s MaXhosa Africa celebrates Xhosa culture through modern knitwear, featured at New York Fashion Week.
Brandon Blackwood
In the U.S., Brandon Blackwood’s brand is synonymous with stylish, durable designer bags.
Anifa Mvuemba
Anifa Mvuemba’s Hanifa is celebrated for empowering women through elegant and modern designs inspired by New York City’s vibrancy.
Wilglory Tanjong
Lastly, Wilglory Tanjong’s Beyoncé-approved label Anima Iris in Senegal draws from African history and craftsmanship, emphasising sustainability and bold designs.
The Africa Fashion Week Middle East
Africa Fashion Week Middle East (AFWME) is gearing up for its exciting new edition later in 2024, and it’s a must-watch for anyone interested in African fashion. This event has become a platform for showcasing African talent in Dubai, celebrating the historic trade ties between Africa and the Gulf Region. Launched by passionate African female entrepreneurs, AFWME continues to break barriers and shine a spotlight on some of the most talented African designers.
One designer to keep an eye on is Joe Osawaye of Kiza Bespoke from Nigeria. His brand is known for its sharp tailoring and impeccable craftsmanship, marrying African elegance with today’s trends. Ntombi Couture from Zimbabwe, another standout, is famous for its ultra-feminine designs and intricate details, celebrating African femininity and craftsmanship.
Palesa Mokubung of Mantsho, from South Africa, is also making waves with her unique combination of traditional African elements and modern fashion. Her collaboration with H&M has brought African designs to a global audience. Additionally, Duro Olowu’s vibrant prints and eclectic designs, along with Maki Oh’s blend of Nigerian culture and modern fashion, are gaining international attention.
With such a diverse lineup of talented designers, the upcoming edition of AFWME is set to be an inspiring showcase of African heritage and innovation in fashion. These designers are definitely ones to watch out for as they continue to make their mark on the global stage.
