For the first time, here is a book on contemporary African design that offers a fresh perspective rather than just concentrating on traditional crafts. Africa invented ‘design’; it just wasn’t called that. Now, expressing new-found confidence, an astonishingly variegated contemporary efflorescence is ready to go global. The reader is taken far beyond such cultural stereotypes as safari chic and is shown innovative creativity from across the continent.
The work included illustrates how traditions are being revived, but with a contemporary twist. The award-winning designs by Zenzulu™ in South Africa, for instance, are based on the utilization of the skills of Zulu master basketweavers. An introductory section identifies the sophistication, vitality, diversity and soulfulness of the past that is now harnessed to develop a contemporary African identity.
