Seven Sisters

Seven Sisters

Representing women of all ages and their sharing of their innermost secrets, this installation explores universal sorority using Punu masks from Gabon, Ndop textiles from the Bamileke tribe in Cameroon and Japanese kanzashi accessories. Transcending cultures through both West African and Japanese aesthetics, it evokes a spiritual progression of whispers and unspoken experiences.

© Photo: Nicolas Omet

ULTRA-MEN

ULTRA-MEN

This masks from Central and West Africa were brought to Japan. By dressing in layer upon layer of tsuki-urushi clear lacquer, their surfaces combed with delicate textures in powdered tin and gold. Their bright metallic glow will acquire a sabi patina over the years. The dark wood of the past submerged beneath repeating arcs of seikaiha wave patterns, hints of hakeme brushwork swirl over sunburnt cheeks.

THE BLOOD BROTHERS

THE BLOOD BROTHERS

Uniting the work of a Cameroon Bamileke master craftsman with that of Japanese lacquer master with 40 years’ experience, The Blood Brothers highlight the “3rd esthetic” history and beauty of two cultures to create something contemporary and unique.

WAFRICA TEA CEREMONY

WAFRICA TEA CEREMONY

During a full moon evening, a dialogue between live Senegalese kora musicians and Japanese Masters in The Art of Tea, a public performance uniting the distinct heritage of both cultures, inspiring further conversations, a new sense of birth.

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AFRICAN KIMONO

AFRICAN KIMONO

Tailored design cut, made in Kyoto in collaboration with 150 years’ kimono experience ODASHO, Wafrica kimono capitalise on Japanese refinement and attention to detail combined with West Africa rhythmic density and vibration.

AFRICAN KIMONO SHOW

Taking it into the world, innovative variations of the African Kimono have been shown in New York, Dakar, Basel, Stockholm, Kyoto, Paris, Nairobi, Tokyo etc. The results are so much more than a blend of two existing cultures.