Afrika Design: Creative Tour of Africa

In this episode, we sit down with Wanjiku, the visionary behind Hisi Studio, a groundbreaking lifestyle and fashion brand. Hisi Studio is dedicated to exploring inclusive design and revolutionizing fashion by considering the unique needs of visually impaired consumers. Wanjiku shares her journey, delving into the successes, setbacks, and invaluable lessons learned along the way.

She sheds light on the sensory experiences of persons with disabilities, offering insights into their perceptions of color and daily life. Moreover, Wanjiku imparts essential knowledge on fostering inclusivity in interactions with persons with disabilities, providing a guide to understanding and embracing diverse perspectives.

This is the 33st episode under the ‘Shifting Narratives’ program supported by the British Council SSA Arts.

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In this episode, we embark on a sensory odyssey with your host, Adrian, a rare synesthete offering a unique insight into the world of synesthesia—where senses intertwine, transforming music into colors and words into tastes. Adrian's personal journey unfolds at the Venice Design Week, where he collaborates with experts to unravel the mysteries of synesthesia's impact on daily experiences and problem-solving.

Joining Adrian on the panel are members of Journey Through The Senses, an International Nonprofit Organization celebrating human sensory perception through art, performance, science, technology, and interactive installations. This extraordinary exploration is made possible through a partnership between Journey Through The Senses and Nairobi Design, in collaboration with Venice Design Week. Join us as we navigate this remarkable tapestry of perception and delve into the captivating world of synesthesia.

Panel:

James Wannerton (UK) [Producer/Key Organizer]

Anton V. Sidoroff-Dorso (Russia) [Chief Science Officer]

Professor Julia Simner (UK) [Science Advisor]

Michael Haverkamp (Germany) [Product Design]

Adrian Jankowiak (Poland/Kenya) [Creative Director]

This is the 32st episode under the ‘Shifting Narratives’ program supported by the British Council SSA Arts.

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In this episode, we introduce Gabriella Okeno, one of the founders of Archtivate Africa—an initiative dedicated to showcasing African architecture, with a particular focus on its vernacular expressions. Her organization aims to visually represent vernacular architecture, particularly from pre-colonial Africa, through the integration of AI technology and various tools.

Gabriella's passion for rural landscapes, coupled with her fascination with the dynamics of rural-urban migration, has guided her on this journey. She advocates for a forward-looking approach that involves reconsidering elements that may have been overlooked due to the erosion of cultural practices.

This is the 31st episode under the ‘Shifting Narratives’ program supported by the British Council SSA Arts.

*For the best experience, please use a headset/earphones.

In this episode, we return to the captivating landscapes of Madagascar. Our guest is Miora Acker, a visual artist with a fervent curiosity for societal phenomena. Her muse is society itself: its inhabitants, their everyday experiences, the ecosystem they inhabit, and the intricacies of human psychology. Miora's mission is to challenge prevailing perceptions that different groups within society hold about one another.

Miora delves into the disparities between German and Malagasy societies, shedding light on their respective strengths and weaknesses. Through her exploration, she emphasizes the potential for mutual learning. Furthermore, she is eager to unveil the multifaceted and culturally rich side of Madagascar, dispelling misconceptions that might have arisen from popular depictions like "Madagascar the Movie."

This is the 30th episode under the ‘Shifting Narratives’ program supported by the British Council SSA Arts.

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In this episode, we have the pleasure of introducing Victor Gatonye, who holds the role of Creative/Technical Director at Zamaradi Productions, boasting nearly two decades of experience in the realm of TV and Film production. Victor is widely acknowledged for his pivotal role in nurturing Kenya's Film industry, steering Zamaradi Productions to create more than 71 TV films, 11 TV Shows, a feature film, and successfully executing two international projects in Canada and Sweden. He takes us on a captivating journey, providing his unique perspective on the history of TV and Film in Kenya and recounting his personal evolution into the multifaceted roles of a Film/TV director, actor, story developer, and writer.

Victor's storytelling in TV and Film genuinely resonates with the human experience, offering a lens to examine the challenges we encounter in life. Furthermore, you'll gain insights into the creation of a small-scale 'Hollywood' by Victor and his team, as well as how it has organically grown into something more extensive than just Zamaradi Productions.

This is the 29th episode under the ‘Shifting Narratives’ program supported by the British Council SSA Arts.

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What Does Design Mean, and Can It Benefit Everyone?

In this episode, we embark on a journey to unravel the vast concept of design. Our conversation is with Dr. Laura Glory, a medical doctor who also wears the hats of an artist and poet.

Dr. Glory unveils how she seamlessly weaves design into her professional life, whether she's performing surgeries or tending to her patients. Her drawings and poems serve as instruments to enhance patients' emotional well-being and instill a sense of hope. In her perspective, the realms of medicine and design overlap in these moments.

This episode echoes the words: ‘Design is everywhere, design is for problem solving.’ How are you able to further your practice through design?

This is the 28th episode under the ‘Shifting Narratives’ program supported by the British Council SSA Arts.

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Chrissa Amuah, a versatile designer, serves as the Founder and Creative Director of AMWA Designs, a high-end homeware and interior decor brand infused with Adinkra symbolism. While her heritage spans Ghana, Benin, and Togo, her primary inspiration stems from Ghana. She delves into the Adinkra Symbols, emphasizing how they grant her designs enduring significance, believing that meaningful creations have a longer-lasting impact.

Chrissa's impressive portfolio encompasses diverse projects, including Amplify, the Ghana Pavilion, and the 2021 London Design Biennale hosted at Somerset House. Yet, her aspirations extend beyond personal success. She aspires to showcase African talent on a global stage, thereby introducing Africa to the world. This mission is embodied in her brainchild, Africa by Design, which has already exhibited in five cities across four continents since its inception.

This is the 27th episode under the ‘Shifting Narratives’ program supported by the British Council SSA Arts.

*For the best experience, please use a headset/earphones.

We had a chance to be featured on the Hideout Podcast hosted by Wambui Chege. It was a fun conversation about Nairobi Design. You can check out the podcast as it has numerous interesting conversations featuring stories about people from different walks of life.

Is Kenya ready for large scale 3D printing?

This week, we talk to Mohammed Firozhusein—Director at 3D Moguls Ltd. 3D Moguls provides 3D printing solutions for businesses, such as prototyping and low volume custom parts manufacturing. He breaks down the 3D printing processes and shows the practicality of this solution. He details various industries where the technology could thrive and where Kenya is when it comes to its application.

If you want to understand 3D printing, and whether it’s a worth-while investment, or if you think your business may need it…then this is the episode for you.

This is the 26th episode under the ‘Shifting Narratives’ program supported by the British Council SSA Arts.

*For the best experience, please use a headset/earphones.