If the incredibly bold geometric colour block graphics of the handmade Sankara Rug by textile designer and fashion rebel Nkuli Mlangeni don't grab you - discovering the story and intent behind Mlangeni's work surely will.
Growing up just outside of Johannesburg, Mlangeni studied in Switzerland before returning to South Africa to pursue revitalization of the dying art form of weaving using traditional African and Peruvian techniques. Mlangeni has made it her goal to inspire the interest of younger people in order to preserve this artistic practice - she also feels inspired to affect change by combining things she's passionate about: social revolutions, contemporary design, handicrafts, under-told African narratives and black aesthetics. Mlangeni's work is an expression of southern Africa’s modernity, as well as its rich history of craft.
Her incredible intention and fierce talent has snagged her the Most Beautiful Object in South Africa at the 2017 Design Indaba festival.
Design Indaba is a series of events and an online publication founded and run by Interactive Africa under the slogan "A better world through creativity". The festival is held annually in South Africa to showcase a cast of the world’s best creative minds, sharing inimitable inspiration, new perspectives and universal solutions.
Watch the interview with the designer herself responding to the nomination honour. A true SA gem.
These exquisite handmade artisanal rugs are made to order and available for purchase through Mlangeni's website platform theninevites.net - get on that! And order me two!