I AM
Vol 1 Issue 2 (May/June)
ASHANTI REDISCOVER AFRICA THROUGH US
Job Kongolo on living boldly and artistic through his Jokol collections Naomi Duncan, cultural authenticity that is proudly showcased by her Kurami Lifestyle brand Conversations with Adele, the African renaissance movement one jewellery piece at a time
THE BOLD COLLECTIVE weareable art pieces
BOITY PINK SAPPHIRE A poetic, modern fragrance created to express the perfect harmony of sensuality and strength.
Boity Pink Sapphire 100ml R1495.00 50ml R895.00 15ml R295
www.haloheritage.com
Advertorial
INTRICATE PIECES BY VELMA www.velmasaccessories.com
Advertorial
INTRICATE PIECES BY VELMA
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VICTORIA WENDISH
Victoria Wendish
THE CIRCLE ART GALLERY, ZIMBABWE
I AM ASHANTI CREATIVE DIRECTOR NICHOLAH OPOKU MOYO nicholah@iamashanti.com EDITOR ANITTA BANJWA anitta@iamashanti.com
A Note from the Founder and Creative Director
FEATURES EDITOR SIHLE QELEKESHE
Welcome to I Am Ashanti Magazine
sihle@iamashanti.com
This is a magazine that has been created and written for African women, Africans in the diaspora or individuals who share a common interest in wanting to know more about Africa or rediscover the novelties of the continent.
ART/LAYOUT DIRECTOR NICHOLAH OPOKU MOYO
We believe that I Am Ashanti not only aspires to be the industry pioneer in African fashion and lifestyle magazines, but also to influence how the rest of the world views our diverse continent. I Am Ashanti wants to work with honest brands who share our vision and dream of creating a world where African beauty is seen objectively. The magazine’s goal is to foster a collaborative culture that celebrates African fashion, beauty, travel, and literature in their purest form, while also allowing our readers to rediscover Africa’s modern beauty through us.
BEAUTY EDITOR LIZ CHIMANI liz@iamashanti.com BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER PRENISHA CHETTY prenisha@iamashanti.com PUBLIC RELATIONS LINDA MATSOLO linda@iamashanti.com
In this Issue.. In this issue we look at how art influences all our fashion choices without even knowing it and vice-versa. Art is everywhere, the make-up you decide to apply, the clothes you wear or how you choose to style your hair. Sometimes the cut, design or colour of the outfit you are fond of probably resembles an art piece in a gallery somewhere or simply an artist choice of painting style. The way one applies their make-up, the lines or shades you select can also be seen or experienced through a musician’s song. In essence, art is everywhere and you experience this everyday if you just pay close attention to your surroundings. As you go about your lives, remember you are a moving art piece that embodies various art genres. You are an art masterpiece, go forth, be creative and live boldly!
CONTRIBUTORS FASHION CONTENT AMO MODISE THEME CONTENT RELEBOGILE MALAZA PHOTOGRAPHER MARCUS MGADULE MAKE-UP ARTIST PEGGY SYD TAMBWE HAIR STYLIST JOLLY KABIKA SHOOT LOCATION BRUEGELS
Founder & Creative Director Nicholah Opoku Moyo
FEATURED PAINTINGS JEAN-MICHEL VAN DOESBURG MODELS DIANA KASONGO JOSEPHINE SALUMU ERICA CHIPATO CHIZOBA BHENE EUDES DESIDERIO ANDRE CHABETH KING BONDA DARREN SOLOMON CHANCELLE ITOTA MYGLORE KIBOYA SIMONE NYAMABO
CONTACT US ADVERTISING advertising@iamashanti.com COLLABORATIONS collaborations@iamashanti.com OTHER ENQUIRIES contact@iamashanti.com
Credit : Chow Sep (Unsplash)
ON THE COVER Model Erica Chipato Photographer Marcus Tshepo Mgadule Creative Direction Nicholah Opoku Moyo Assisted by Prenisha Chetty Outfit Jokol Make-up Peggy Syd Tambwe Hair Jolly Kabika
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JOKOL, THE BOLD COLLECTION BY JOB KONGOLO
The world is not ready for his boldness
how art influences the fashion world
CONTENTS
22
FASHION IS ART
26
KURAMI LIFESTYLE DESIGNED BY NAOMI DUNCAN
38
CONVERSATIONS WITH ADELE DEJAK, THE AFRICAN RRENAISSANCE MOVEMENT
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JEAN-MICHEL VAN DOESBURGH, ON CONNECTING HUMAN EMOTION TO HIS ART
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AFRICAN ARTIST CHANGING THE NARRATIVE
Fashion is Art Art. A medium of expression used transversely around the globe, and one of the first forms of visual expression. The serenity in being given the freedom to reign one’s imagination and articulate what an artist feels, is what keeps this God-given gift alive today. Art just doesn’t transfer emotion, it tells a story – these were Google’s definitions. Coming to a conclusion built off of several encounters through my own mini-studies, outside the world of other creatives, our fellow earthlings are still under the impression that “Art” ONLY just consists of ‘Fine Art’. Just Fine Art? After how many years since the Renaissance? In this day and age? How preposterous.
Vlisco
written by Amo Modise
T
he art of fashion
What people don’t know is that art has a very broad spectrum, INDISPUTABLY BROAD. Think of it as a bizarrely abnormal umbrella: the ‘pointy’ thing at the top labelled as ‘Art’ and the rib assembly as the various categories such as music, sculptures, poetry and fashion of course. Fashion follows into the category of ‘applied arts’. Unlike fine arts, applied arts is the application of design together with aesthetics to produce objects of use. Factually, fashion has rarely been seen to be on the same stature as other genres have, nonetheless fashion is one of the purest expressions of art because it is art lived on a daily basis. Now I know what you’re thinking,
alas the theme is mentioned. Yes, I’m getting to the point. I mean could go on and on about it however I’m on a restricted word limit so you’re welcome.
W
earing our heARTS on our sleeve (literally)
If my undeniably notorious example with the umbrella went off the tangent a bit, (as I tend to do), the message I’m trying to convey here is: Fashion is Art. It is deeply rooted in self expressionism, similar to art, designers profess their sensations through bodies of garments. In art, the colours the artist uses accentuate the mood the artwork brings out, and the same elements tap into the artist’s personality. In the same context, dark makeup and ripped jeans can be connoted to self-expressionism in
fashion. Having read the article, In Defense of Fashion as a True Art Form by Georges Berges, “the legendary Alexander McQueen’s 2011 Savage Beauty show is a prime example of how fashion as legitimate art can be instigated and showcased. His way of thinking of melding soul and energy in each piece was established on the reason that the individuals who wore his manifestations were living articulations of workmanship.”
“It is deeply rooted in self expressionism, similar to art, designers profess their sensations through bodies of garments”.
Lukhayo Mdingi
Rich Mnisi Thebe Magugu
A
rt & fashion, a symbiotic relationship
Art meets Fashion allows room for different interpretations. The convergence of the two is symbiotic. Most occurrences in life are interconnected and interrelated. Through understanding its co-dependence, fashion cannot ‘live’ without the lifeline art supplies it as the two mediums are so heavily intertwined that without the one, the other cannot go on. There is no place (even as far as no object) that is not intrinsically impacted by art. In fact, without art, certain textures and textiles would not exist – maybe even some designers hence I’m says, art and fashion ‘met’ a long time ago. Here’s a simple way to look at it: how you
Palesa Mokubung
dress and style your pieces is an artistic expression in itself of how you view art. If you’re fond of earthy or nude tones on pieces, I can 100% (in fact 200%) guarantee that a bulk of your closet is inspired by these tones. I mean, am
“There is no place (even as far as no object) that is not intrinsically impacted by art. In fact, without art, certain textures and textiles would not exist” I right or am I right? I’m free from doubt that most of the times you’ve left a gallery, you leave there adamant that you’re going to find
a coat in that one specific colour. No I’m not saying you dress like Mona Lisa (no judgement if you do) but through the pieces you gravitate towards, you’re more likely inclined to subconsciously mimic certain aspects due to you yearning to resonate with what the artist is trying to divulge or maybe even with the actual artist. Every type of artwork is permeated with the dynamism and zeal an artist breathes into it. The art we wear and live with is the art we become. Art—fashion and otherwise—replicates our individuality and aspirations.
KURAMI LIFESTYLE
DESIGNED BY NAOMI DUNCAN
Kurami Lifestyle offers uniquely designed and handcrafted bags from Ghana. The cultural authenticity is proudly showcased by the African print lining each bag.
We met briefly, what an amazing encounter! Born to Ghanaian heritage and lived in Europe, who is Naomi Duncan? I am an adventurous mama of a one year old and I am in love with travelling and beauty. The beauty of nature, art, fashion and people. I believe that we are here to experience and learn. I believe in the power of challenging one’s self and building together. How did Kurami start?, When did you make the decision to pursue a career as a designer?
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It started in 2015, I already had an interest in fashion, clothing and bags. So when a family friend showcased his leather bags (through my father) I was fascinated by his art. I travelled for 2 weeks to Ghana that year, and my father and I started working together, making sample after sample until the first bag was released in 2016.
Piesie yellow tie-dye leather duffel bag €229
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Feature Story
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// THE PROCESS What type of leather do you use, where is it sourced and why did you choose that specific leather? I use goat leather. I always try to work with locally produced materials. We buy our leather from the north of Ghana or Burkina Faso. Working with different types of leather can be quite challenging, but that makes the process and design unique. When a design, size and colour have been picked for a new bag, how does the rest of the production day look for the Kurami team?
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When the design, size and colour have been picked, the process of making the bag begins.. The handcraft artists and I discuss all details and we start with 1 or 2 samples. Thereafter, I take my time to sample the bag; checking how it feels, it’s practicality, and if it lives up to my expectations. If I am happy, we move to the final stages.
Mansa yellow leather wallet €39
Piesie orange leather duffel bag €229
T
he Kurami lifestyle bags are different and the unique design and elements are what caught our attention. Please tell us a bit about the creative inspiration for your collection from the texture, colour, shape and size?
Working with bright colours makes me happy, and over the years I’ve noticed that my customers love them too.The colours I use are influenced by what’s trending or if there is a special request from the customer. This gives me new combinations and ideas. I like to keep the shapes simple but with the clear detail of handcraft visible. The bags are not made for one occasion, you can wear your bag as a fashion statement, to a chiq event, on a casual day or even on a nice weekend trip.
“The challenges I’ve faced are more about personal growth. I’ve often asked myself, is it good enough? Do I put enough time and energy into my business?“ What’s your favourite bag from your collection and why? I’ve worked with 12 different models but my first one, the weekend bag named Píèsíe (meaning first born in Akan) is still my favorite.). The moment I drew this one and the first sample was ready, I knew that it would be the must-have in your wardrobe. What are some of the challenges you’ve faced as a blackowned business?
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The challenges I’ve faced are more about personal growth. I’ve often asked myself, is it good enough? Do I put enough time and energy into my business? But, I am learning along the way that what you give is what you receive. Another challenge was not having a business or entrepreneurship background.
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Piesie green leather duffel bag €229
Mansa tie-dye green leather wallet €39
W
e believe sustainability has always been at the core of how Africans have lived in the past. Is this important for your brand and why?
It’s very important. I am always thinking how I can make my product more sustainable. Trying to use all materials locally. Work with what is available but there is always more work to do when it comes to sustainability. Suggestions are always welcome. Let’s talk about future plans: Your collection is available for purchase on Esty, are there any plans of expanding to a physical location, if yes can you give us a hint on where? I am happy with how things are currently. I dream big, and it would be amazing to have a physical shop where I can meet my customers, but more sales are made online. However, I am in the process of launching my online store. The physical shop will definitely be in the Netherlands, Ghana and Cape Verde and the U.S. What advice do you have for aspiring black entrepreneurs? Keep going. Step by step we learn and grow. This process is very valuable. WE can do it. Let’s inspire and build each other.
Visit Kurami Lifestyle’s instagram page for more designs and information @kurami.lifestyle
www.kempinski.com
// CONVERSATIONS WITH ADELE DEJAK
H
andcrafted in Kenya – and known for its opulent African inspired jewelry. The Adele Dejak brand is made out of materials used by various African tribes to create ornaments and trinkets.
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www.adeledejak.com
All Images provided by Adele Dejak
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///Afrophile life Ring Party Armor yourself with the AD jewellery and embrace hope and love by Adele Dejak
www.adeledejak.com
What is the story behind Adele Dejak? I like to think that Adele Dejak was born when I was still a child, I just didn’t know it at the time. I was drawn to African fashion from an early age, and was especially fascinated by indigenous cultures. I remember making clothes from African fabrics for my dolls and jewelry from beads. As an adult, I started making jewelry for myself and people loved my work. I grabbed the opportunity to turn my passion into a business and never looked back. The different African cultures that I adored and admired as a child, still inspire me. My brand is deeply rooted in the African culture. I draw inspiration from different aspects of the African heritage and juxtapose these with modern European elements to create pieces that are not only fashionable, but they also tell the African story that is often not told about Africa. We are on the frontline of the African Renaissance Movement. Every successful creative uses some sort of inspiration to create amazing pieces, what inspires you? I draw inspiration from different places. From nature, my travels and literature. I immerse myself into African literature and that has been a huge source of inspiration. I am constantly researching and coming up with ideas for my collections.
Which piece/s amongst your collection are you most proud of and why? I am proud of all my pieces. Each piece has been through its own journey and at times challenges. But what makes me super-proud is that people buy my work and wear it. I’m always thrilled when I see people adorned in AD. It’s a huge kick and makes me proud. What sort of challenges do you experience while operating a socially responsible business? The biggest challenge I face comes down to sales. Being an ethical and sustainable brand is trendy right now but unfortunately, people often don’t put the money where their mouths are. The cost of slow fashion is higher than fast fashion but people are not willing to pay the price. Another challenge regarding price points is that people automatically assume that because we are made in Africa it must be cheap. So sometimes my team and I are astounded when clients try to bargain for pieces that are a fraction of the prices of Western luxury prices. We have affordable luxury pieces. We cater for students, designers, and entrepreneurs. Our accessories are also unisex.. We won’t break your bank account!
“We are in the frontline of the African Renaissance Movement.”
Every successful creative uses some sort of inspiration to create amazing pieces, what inspires you? I draw inspiration from different places. From nature, my travels and literature. I immerse myself into African literature and that has been a huge source of inspiration. I am constantly researching and coming up with ideas for my collections.
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Your collection pieces have been featured in some of Beyoncé music videos and now listed on her BLACK PARADE directory, what does that mean for you and your brand? I love Beyoncé, having my jewellery featured in her album as well as the Black Parade Directory was a huge deal for me. She represents the brand perfectly and is all about lifting up black-owned businesses. It was an honour being recognized in such a manner.
To what extent does sustainability play a role in your production process? Sustainability is fundamental in my production process. I have a deep connection with nature, and it was important that my brand puts the environment first from the very beginning. What does diversity and inclusion specifically in changing the narrative of the African continent mean to you? Diversity and inclusion means we get to tell our story. We best understand our struggles, our strength, our beauty, history and potential because we experience it every day. I am inspired by people who are unapologetically African and tell the story of Africa using their work. From photographers, musicians, painters, designers, poets, and leaders. This is a new dawn for the continent. Our time is now, and the story is ours to tell.
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Maureen Jepchirchir
// ADELE DEJAK PIECES WORN BY BEYONCE ON THE BLACK PARADE ALBUM www.adeledejak.com
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Dhanamani Kanini bracelet
Margaret Aluminium Small bracelet
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Adele Dejak’s favourite pieces
// “SUSTAINABILIT IS FUNDAMENTA IN MY PRODUCTIO PROCESS
// FINE CRAFTMANSHIP
TY TAL ON S.”
Maureen Jepchirchir
What advice would you give to aspiring jewelry designers especially in Africa? Also, what advice would you give your younger self? The one piece of advice I would give jewelry designers is to have a mission and vision for your work. Know your value, don’t just create jewellery because you can, have it mean something. Ask yourself how you want your work to shape the world and don’t ever lose sight of what you stand for. Lastly, to a young Adele, follow your gut feeling. Gut feelings are guardian angels. You have recently collaborated with Enda Sportswear (a brand that we love) and Sandstorm, what does it mean to support other black owned brands for you? There are so many incredible black-owned brands that I love and these collaborations are a great way of supporting each other. It is essential that we support each in order to thrive.
Three things we would find in your purse? Mobile phone, cigarettes, and a notebook.
“Only do something if you are truly passionate about it. Believe in yourself. Never give up. Be grateful”
Imagine you are in a white canvas room, what’s the first thing that comes to mind? Africa. What’s the last thing you do just before bed and the first thing you do in the morning? Pray and give thanks to my ancestors. What can we expect in the future from Adele Dejak? Expect the unexpected. Shhhh! Can’t reveal… Any final words you’d like to share? Only do something if you are truly passionate about it. Believe in yourself. Never give up. Be grateful.
AFRICA Kenya
Maureen Jepchirchir
RENEWAL SERIES Maureen Jepchirchir
// “I immerse myself into African literature and that has been a huge source of inspiration.”
RENEWAL SERIES
Maureen Jepchirchir
Maureen Jepchirchir
ad vibes
www.adeledejak.com
Maureen Jepchirchir
HONOURING THE ANCESTORS
AFRICAN ARTIST CHANGING THE NARRATIVE A vibrant contemporary art scene in Africa by Relebogile Malaza
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// SERGE ATTUKWEI CLOTTEY GHANA
// SUNGI MLENGEYA TANZANIA
//RICHARD ATUGONZA UGANDA
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Serge Attukwei Clottey is a Ghanaian artist known for his plastic patchwork installations, performance, charcoal portraits, photography, and sculpture. He was born in 1985 in Accra. The artist explores personal and family backgrounds, as well as collective histories, and connects consumerism with exchange and migration. He makes bold statements about modern Africa with bold assemblages of cut or whole yellow gallon containers. He is the founder of Ghana’s GoLokal performance group, whose mission is to use art to change society.
Sungi Mlengeya’s paintings feature stark contrasts of dark figures against white backgrounds; her work is distinguished by this signature, minimalist black-and-white aesthetic. Mlengeya, a self-taught painter, worked in banking for a while before deciding to devote her full attention to art in 2018. Ordinary, everyday women who live their lives without inhibitions encourage her. Her subjects’ desire for freedom to achieve their full potential without the constraints imposed by harmful cultural and social standards is symbolized by the white space shown in her works.
Richard Atugonza is a young sculptor who is consciously carving out his own style. He makes relief sculptures with vibrant textures and a variety of materials to depict people. Atugonza sculpts in a collaborative and long-term manner. Recycled plastics and charcoal are used to create his sculptures. The intricacies of body representation and how people see themselves are the subject of this work. The works were created by Atugonza from casts of people he knows. The works examine the futility of attempting perfection and show how beauty can be found in imperfection.
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\\ AMANDA MUSHATE ZIMBABWE
\\ KATLEGO TLABELA SOUTH AFRICA
\\ NANDIPHA MNTAMBO ESWATINI
Her dissertation focuses on interpersonal relationships as well as the interactions between people and society. Despite the fact that she works in a variety of mediums, her paintings often include several ethereal layers that seem to float in and out of figuration with ease.
Katlego is a printmaker and self taught painter, an artist who strives on thinking outside the box. The printmaker and self taught painter. His subject matter ranges from social and political crises in post-apartheid South Africa; the independent African continent; and politics. He gathers inspiration from his imagination, lived experiences, music books and his own research. His work is distinctive as he uses traditional mediums to create futuristic art.
Originating from eSwatini and popular for her flawless figures, just as her photos and blended media pieces, Nandipha Mntambo is quickly becoming well known inside Africa’s expanding contemporary workmanship scene. Her falling human figure-formed cowhide models have acquired her worldwide recognition and have been shown at gallery contemporary art displays. Her craft investigates the connection among humankind and the regular world in a remarkably South African manner, solidly setting her inside the positions of game-changing contemporary artist to pay special mind to.
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Amanda Shingirai Mushate is one of Zimbabwe’s most exciting young talents. Her work has gained international acclaim since she opened her first solo exhibition in 2018.
ART
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Creative Direction by Nicholah Opoku Moyo Collection and Styling by Job Kongolo (Jokol) Photographed By Marcus Tshepo Mgadule Hair styling executed by Jolly Kabika Make-up slayed by Peggy “Syd” Tambwe Models Diana Kasongo, Josephine Salumu, Erica Chipato, Chizoba Bhene, Eudes Desiderio Andre, Chabeth King Bonda, Darren Solomon, Chancelle Itota, Myglore Kiboya and Simone Nyamabo Location provided by Brueguels
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Cover Story
// JOKOL, THE BOLD COLLECTION BY JOB KONGOLO Determined to create fashion pieces that place Africa on a different narrative than the one of just African print fabrics. //
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A
n extremely passionate designer from the Democratic Republic of Congo in the Katanga province , Joe Kongolo continues to push the envelope with his bold, expressive designs through his Jokol collections.
CONTINUE TOafterLIVE BOLDLY all it’s the only way to truly live
What motivated you to pursue a career in fashion design? My love for fashion design began at an early age. As a child I was surrounded by tailors. While most children would go out and play, I would either sit and watch them as they worked or watched Fashion TV on DSTV premium. I knew then that all I wanted to do was make beautiful gowns that would be equally worn by beautiful women. Growing up in a traditional household, pursuing my love for fashion design was not a choice I could make then. Once I completed my high school certificate, I went on to study a certificate in electrical engineering. After completion, I still felt that something was missing and decided to pursue a degree in business management and this is where I meet my dear friend Nicole who encouraged me to purse fashion design. It was at that moment that I realised I couldn’t run away from my love of fashion, with her encouragement and the amazing support of my brother and both my parents, the rest is history. What are the top 3 things that spark your creativity?
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Simplicity, quality and uniqueness.
Quaepudant perum quo
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Models Chancelle Itota, Chabeth King Bonda Photographer Marcus Tshepo Mgadule Creative Direction Nicholah Opoku Moyo Assisted by Prenisha Chetty Outfits Jokol Make-up Peggy Syd Tambwe Hair Jolly Kabika
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COVER STORY
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// THE WORLD IS NOT READY FOR JOB KONGOLO
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he designs you created for this editorial are undeniably bold, but who or what were your sources of inspiration while making them?
For this editorial it was important for me to create designs that were inclusive of all types of women, in French we call it “madame, tout le monde”. This entailed pushing my creativity and also incorporating the beauty of how art inspires the fashion scene, [well in this case my fashion world]. My inspiration is driven by music, that’s my preferred form of art. The privilege of letting the music sway you to different heights is inspirational for me. With my earphones securely placed in my ears and my favourite playlist playing I am transported to a limitless creative world as I browse through the fabric swatches in my favourite store. The feel and colour of the fabric directs my designs and I let my imagination take control of my creativity. What does “fashion as art” mean to you? One cannot live without the other. Whatever form of art one prefers, it will definitely influence how they dress as well. How often do you produce your pieces?
Visit Jokol Collection’s instagram page for more designs and information @jokol_jk
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Well currently, I would say yearly for now, but the sky is the limit for Jokol by JK.
// How do you want people to feel when they wear your designs?
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want people to love themselves, to feel beautiful, sexy and powerful but most importantly to be comfortable in their own skin. I want people to celebrate their uniqueness, I believe the more you try to hide your “imperfections” the more you are going to be aware of them. Don’t hide what makes you unique, embrace it cause that’s what makes you extraordinary.
Quaepudant perum quo
W
hat was your biggest fear when starting your own line?
At the beginning of my career, I was afraid of letting myself down then once I was confident in my skills, it was how people would respond to my bold artistic designs. If at all, how do you deal with the pressure of having to produce new designs season after season? The pressure we experience as designers is always present, we need to continuously create new designs for each season that are bigger and better than the last and still keep the current trends in mind. I think its a matter of trusting your instincts and allowing room for mistakes. For someone looking to take the first step, what skills, in your opinion, are needed for a successful fashion designer? If persevering is a skill, then don’t give up on your dreams, money doesn’t buy dreams. When I started, I didn’t have any capital. Surround yourself with a great support system especially for those times when it seems like quitting is better than pushing forward. When can the world experience your collection during fashion week?
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I believe in my God and the power behind spoken words, next year or even this year!
“Fashion is the art of expressing one’s passion, feelings and uniqueness through style, clothes, roots, beliefs and many more” - Eudes Desiderio Andre
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Models Josephine Salumu, Eudes Desiderio Andre Photographer Marcus Tshepo Mgadule Creative Direction Nicholah Opoku Moyo Assisted by Prenisha Chetty Outfits Jokol Make-up Peggy Syd Tambwe Hair Jolly Kabika
“I believe art is wonderful way to express ourselves or share our personal experience and beliefs with the rest of the world. We use art in fashion to create and share our own identity with others” - Josephine Salumu
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Models Josephine Salumu Photographer Marcus Tshepo Mgadule Creative Direction Nicholah Opoku Moyo Assisted by Prenisha Chetty Outfits Jokol Make-up Peggy Syd Tambwe Hair Jolly Kabika
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Models Josephine Salumu, Chizoba Bhene Photographer Marcus Tshepo Mgadule Creative Direction Nicholah Opoku Moyo Assisted by Prenisha Chetty Outfits Jokol Make-up Peggy Syd Tambwe Hair Jolly Kabika
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Models Chizoba Bhene Photographer Marcus Tshepo Mgadule Creative Direction Nicholah Opoku Moyo Assisted by Prenisha Chetty Outfits Jokol Make-up Peggy Syd Tambwe Hair Jolly Kabika
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Models Diana Kasongo, Simone Nyamabo Photographer Marcus Tshepo Mgadule Creative Direction Nicholah Opoku Moyo Assisted by Prenisha Chetty Outfits Jokol Make-up Peggy Syd Tambwe Hair Jolly Kabika
“One cannot live without the other. Whatever form of art one prefers, it will definitely influence how they dress as well”
Models Diana Kasongo, Photographer Marcus Tshepo Mgadule Creative Direction Nicholah Opoku Moyo Assisted by Prenisha Chetty Outfits Jokol Make-up Peggy Syd Tambwe Hair Jolly Kabika
“I want people to love themselves, to feel beautiful, sexy and powerful but most importantly to be comfortable in their own skin”
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“Art plays a huge role in the fashion industry. Ideas come from being creative. Art speaks in many languages and moves people in different ways” - Darren Solomon
Models Myglore Kiboya, Darren Solomn Photographer Marcus Tshepo Mgadule Creative Direction Nicholah Opoku Moyo Assisted by Prenisha Chetty Outfits Jokol Make-up Peggy Syd Tambwe Hair Jolly Kabika
Mode Phot Crea Outfi Make Hair
els Myglore Kiboya, Darren Solomn tographer Marcus Tshepo Mgadule ative Direction Nicholah Opoku Moyo Assisted by Prenisha Chetty its Jokol e-up Peggy Syd Tambwe Jolly Kabika
“My inspiration is driven by music, that’s my preferred form of art”
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Models Erica Chipato Photographer Marcus Tshepo Mgadule Creative Direction Nicholah Opoku Moyo Assisted by Prenisha Chetty Outfits Jokol Make-up Peggy Syd Tambwe Hair Jolly Kabika
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“With the world evolving and different designers having unique ways to inspire their collections. I think art is one of them. It enables them to tell their story and influence the way they showcase their art-pieces.” - Erica Chipato
www.kinapure.com
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Kinapure exquisitely crafted natural skin care that nourishes your skin and empowers West African families
www.kinapure.com
Jean-Michel van Doesburgh A master at creating art pieces that are infused with emotion
PRECIOUS 100cm x 100cm x 3.5cm ACRYLIC PAINT & MIXED MEDIA ON STRETCHED CANVAS
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SOLD
Jean Michel van Doesburgh fondly known by many as Mich, is a South African artist who has managed to bring both the traditional sense of art in the form of canvas and the new age of digital art to create masterpieces. His love for all things visually artistic began at Ruth Prowse School of Art in Cape Town, South Africa, where he spent his entire first year immersed in visual arts from jewellery design, figure drawing to printmaking. Jean-Michel prides himself in not conforming to typical artistic inspiration such as landscapes
or sunsets. Instead, he pushes himself to think outside the box. His creativity is sparked by his surroundings, from strangers going about their business in public settings to images he comes across online. Instead of using the variety of techniques he learnt, Mich has a unique approach of painting his portraits using a pallet knife—a skill he acquired when he forgot to purchase a paintbrush and had to resort to using a butter knife. Even though he uses typical painting materials such as canvas and acrylic oil paint, he has the ability to capture the hu-
man connection derived from his surroundings, which can be seen by the richly layered emotions embedded in all his portraits. When Mich is not finishing off his latest portrait that will showcase at Bruegel’s once complete, he can be found creating digital art designs in his office at Grafik Thought, or playing professional hockey. For more information contact Mich on mich@grafikthought. com.
LYDIA 100cm x 100cm x 3.5cm ACRYLIC PAINT & MIXED MEDIA GLADYS 101cm x 76cm x 3.5cm
ON STRETCHED CANVAS R15 000.00
ACRYLIC PAINT & MIXED MEDIA ON STRETCHED CANVAS R15 000.00
SCARFACE II 60cm x 60cm x 3.5cm GOLDINA 100cm x 100cm x 3.5cm ACRYLIC PAINT & MIXED MEDIA ON STRETCHED CANVAS SOLD
ON STRETCHED CANVAS R10 000.00
I AM ASHANTI // 97
ACRYLIC PAINT & MIXED MEDIA
INDUSTRY PIONEER IN AFRICAN FASHION AND LIFESTYLE Rediscover Africa through us
Digital copies available on Issuu www.issuu.com/iamashanti (Print publication launching soon) For more information Instagram/twitter/facebook @iamashantimag website www.iamashanti.com
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