African Design Legacy Goes Global: Nasozi Kakembo's Guide to Authentic Decorating
In this episode, I interview Nasozi Kakembo, author of 'African Decor Edit,' who shares her experiences traveling across Africa meeting artisans, and creating home accessories. Nasozi's book underscores the importance of understanding the cultural context behind African decor, highlighting 16 significant objects and how they are artfully incorporated into homes around the world. She emphasizes the historical and regional significance of these pieces, often misrepresented by colonial borders. Nasozi shares fascinating stories, including her challenging experience making Batik in Ghana and her insights on the cultural symbolism of the Juju hat from Cameroon. We also discuss ethical shopping practices and the creative adaptations of African design elements in various global homes, including her own. The conversation touches on the balance between appreciating and respecting cultural artifacts and the unfortunate rise of mass-produced imitations. Through her work, Nasozi advocates for supporting authentic African artisans and preserving the integrity and beauty of their craft.
Watch this entire episode on YouTube HERE
KEY TAKEAWAYS
As an ardent admirer of art and design, I find immense joy in uncovering the stories that objects carry with them. These stories are what make our homes truly ours—they represent our journeys, our values, and the cultures we draw inspiration from.
Discovering African Heritage through Decor
Nasozi has spent countless years traversing Africa, engaging with artisans, and gathering enchanting home accessories that narrate tales of cultural heritage across the continent. Her book invites readers to understand the meaning behind 16 iconic objects from Africa. These objects aren't just pieces of decor but emblems of history, craftsmanship, and cultural context that transform us into educated consumers.
Understanding the Origins of Art
One of our discussions was about how the boundaries set by colonial powers often don't align with the cultural heritage of African kingdoms and tribes. Nasozi emphasized how geopolitical borders hold little relevance when appreciating African decor. Instead, it is more meaningful to evaluate these arts through geography or linguistic ties.
Take mud cloth, for instance. The fabric is renowned not just in Mali but spans across Burkina Faso and Ivory Coast, speaking the universal language of nature and tradition. The very mud used to create these beautiful cloths flows from a specific river, knitting together cultures that transcend modern borders.
The Art of Batik and the Juju Hat Revelation
I was particularly intrigued by Nasozi's personal story about attempting to create a Batik piece during her residency at the Kokrobitey Institute in Ghana. She realized firsthand the immense artistry and meticulous skill involved in this craft. Her journey from ideation to execution gave her a newfound appreciation for Batik—a craft that she's now deeply connected to.
Another artifact we talked about was the juju hat. Originally a ceremonial piece worn atop the head, it has popularly been adopted as wall decor in Western settings. This transition from cultural garments to decorative objects reflects an interesting negotiation between preserving and monetizing heritage.
Exploring Ethical Shopping
In our conversation, Nasozi and I also deliberated on the challenges of ethical shopping, especially when African-inspired designs become mass-produced imitations on big-box shelves. We shared stories highlighting the importance of knowing the origin and journey of the objects we purchase. The insights she provided about prioritizing authentic connections to artisans and the importance of ethical sourcing were eye-opening. Ethical shopping ensures that the financial benefits reach the communities that cultivate and cherish these incredible arts.
Infusing African Design in Our Homes
The second half of Nasozi's book features homes from around the globe that incorporate African objects into their designs—blending styles, eras, and cultures. Her own home speaks volumes about harmonious juxtapositions. The 1970s architecture of her house, paired with organic, soft African elements, balances stark modernity with cozy warmth. It's a testament to how thoughtfully integrating different elements can bring a unique character to a space.
Slow Style: A Narrative of Heritage and Creativity
Our chat made me realize that slow style isn't just about leaning into slower-paced living; it's about embracing the stories behind everything we choose to surround ourselves with. It's about recognizing that each piece, whether it's a Batik cloth or a handmade basket, carries with it a lineage of creativity and tradition. By taking the time to learn these stories, we honor them, cherish them, and infuse their legacy into our modern lives.
I am incredibly grateful for the chance to explore African decor with Nasozi Kakembo. The episode was an enriching experience and one that I hope will encourage listeners to embrace slow style by thoughtfully curating their homes with objects that echo with heritage and significance.
Until Next Time!
-Zandra
Links Mentioned In Episode
Nasozi’s Shop
Nasozi’s Instagram
Nasozi’s YouTube
Photos Provided By: Nasozi Kakembo
