On December 16th, during The BLUEPRINT Experience, we explored the dynamic and thought-provoking topic of cross-cultural engagement and collaboration. This insightful panel featured Wana Muthama, Eben Badu, and Guillaume Schmidt, with the conversation expertly moderated by Sunny Dolat. Together, they shared their unique perspectives on how cultural exchange can spark innovation, inspire storytelling, and foster deeper connections within the creative community. Dive into this rich discussion and discover how collaboration across cultures is shaping the future of art, design, and fashion.
If traditional aesthetics are a source of pride, then the radical creativity embodied in Bubu Ogisi’s IAMISIGO ought to be a source of deep joy. Ogisi is an inspirational figure who has invigorated fashion with sweeping creative innovations and a commitment to the principles of social sustainability and cultural heritage.
We sat down with Guillaume 'Gee' Schmidt and alongside with Edson Sabajo, Schmidt established Patta in 2004, and the brand quickly gained recognition for its unique designs and collaborations within the global streetwear scene. Patta has become synonymous with urban culture, releasing clothing, footwear, and accessories that resonate with fans worldwide. Schmidt's contributions to Patta's success have been significant, helping to shape its identity and influence within the fashion industry.
In this episode, we have the pleasure of chatting with Coco Olakunle, an accomplished photographer and the Co-Founder of Showroom in Amsterdam. Showroom serves as a captivating nexus where fashion, pictorial books, and editorials converge seamlessly. Coco graciously walks us through her journey into the realm of photography, illuminating the paths that led her to where she is today. Moreover, she unveils her unique approach to fostering community engagement through book clubs, where she generously shares her favorite photo book editorials, fostering a space for collective appreciation and dialogue.
Nifemi Marcus Bello is a Nigerian industrial designer known for his innovative approach to product design, blending traditional craftsmanship with contemporary aesthetics. He has worked on various projects, including the design of the LM Stool and the Gida Table which explores modular and sustainable design principles. Bello's work often emphasises local materials and techniques, creating pieces that are both functional and culturally resonant.
We sat down with Eben Badu, Co-Founder of The New Originals. We talked marketing, collaborations and so much more. As we continue to journey through the creative field we are honoured to be collaborating with international creatives as well as local creative here in Kenya. Look out for more coming soon, ever second and fourth Monday of the month.
Tune in to hear how life has been lately for Agnes Waruguru. As she continues to make big strides in her career she takes a moment to share with us where she is at today. She walks us through her relationship to her work and how her work continues to evolve from where she started to where she is today, where her inspiration comes from and what allows her to communicate to us through her work.
Today we share a conversation we had with Zara Muthama. Zara has a Diploma in Art and Design, as well as a Bachelors in Fashion Design and a Masters Degree in Fashion Promotion, Communication and Media. During the time she spent as a student Zara began to realise the importance of sustainable fashion and how urgent it is to act now rather than later.
In this episode we share a conversation we had with Mohamed Awale, Founder of Rummage Studio (previously known as Suave Kenya). At 9 years, Rummage Studio has maintained their ethos of being a sustainable brand that focuses on designing fashion accessories from up cycled material either from the Gikomba Market or the waste from the EPZ Factories. This episode takes us on a journey through Mohamed’s past year and how significant the events of the year have been for him as a brand manager, as well as for the future of Rummage Studio.
For the first episode of BLUEPRINT we sit down with the Founder of CRAFTED Nairobi: Design and Garment Establishment who briefly explains her past in hospitality and how it inspired her path in design and garments.
Wana also outlines the importance of the BLUEPRINT series and the conversation it seeks to provide.
