Africa Calling showcases contemporary African design

Bold, bright designs are coming to the Southbank next week thanks to the Africa Calling showcase.

Foto Botanika Wallpaper by Clinton Friedman
Foto Botanika Wallpaper by Clinton Friedman

Contemporary African design pieces including wallpaper, homeware and fashion accessories will form the basis of the inaugural event, curated by Shake the Dust’s Kathy Shenoy and Lizel Strauss, of photographic art specialist Subject Matter Art.

Knitwear by Laduma Ngxokolo.
Knitwear by Laduma Ngxokolo.

The aim of Africa Calling according to its organisers, is to ‘highlight the work of new and established designers from Africa and the Diaspora, who are challenging African Aesthetics and exploring new collaborations and cross-cultural connections.’

Bottleform lights by Heath Nash
Bottleform lights by Heath Nash

Shenoy says, ‘We intend to contribute by supporting and connecting artists and designers, particularly emerging creative talent. This talent can be mobilized to enrich the UK and African design scenes – both aesthetically and commercially.’

Chair by Yinka Ilori
Chair by Yinka Ilori

Among the designers showing their work are Yinka Ilori and South African lighting designer Heath Nash, who is also running drop-in recycled design workshops over the weekend.

Another highlight will be the woven vessels by Swaziland-based Fair Trade artisan co-operative Gone Rural.

lights by Heath Nash
lights by Heath Nash

Africa Calling runs from 12 – 14 September at the RFH foyer (Level 2), Southbank Centre, Belvedere Road, London SE1 8XX before moving to Designjunction at the Southbank Centre for a debate session on 21 September

 

 

 

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