The Featured Culturalists™

We highlight the work and contributions of Culturalists who are elevating the African Cultural Economy within their respective fields. These Culturalists are a curated group of creators whose work reflects C&C Africa’s mission. They act as the cultural custodians and experts who nuture and advance the cultural conversation.

The Featured Culturalists™

Betty G

RECORDING ARTIST
Ethiopia

Solomon Omogboye

VISUAL ARTIST
Nigeria

Chef Pierre Thiam

AUTHOR & CULINARY ARTIST
Senegal

Chef Coco

CULINARY ARTIST
Burundi

Meron Seid

CREATIVE DIRECTOR
MERON ADDIS ABABA
Ethiopia

Thandiwe Muriu

FINE ART PHOTOGRAPHER
Kenya

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The Power of African Fabrics in Storytelling One

The Power of African Fabrics in Storytelling

One of the most remarkable aspects of African fabrics is how the simplest designs tell a story.

Adinkra cloth, a handcrafted masterpiece by the Asante people of Ghana, is a testament to the cultural richness of African fabrics. Its striking white background, adorned with bold black or red prints, carries significant meanings that connect to idioms, proverbs, and spiritual beliefs. Each piece is a canvas of cultural art, steeped in history.

Kente patterns are woven into the fabric, while Adinkra designs are stamped onto it. Each symbol represents values such as wisdom and unity. Many of these symbols refer to proverbs or are named after important figures, which adds layers of meaning to the cloth.

Stay tuned as we explore the stories behind African fashion and the powerful symbolism.

👉 Follow @candcafrica for more insights into the history of African fashion.

#candcafrica #gettoknowafrica #africanfashion #fashion #africa @africaculturecollection

Image source: Ghana for 91 Days Blog

Fast Facts About Khanga Cloth The khanga, also kn

Fast Facts About Khanga Cloth

The khanga, also known as leso, symbolizes cultural identity, history, and expression across the African Great Lakes region and beyond. While the khanga originated on the island of Zanzibar and spread throughout Kenya and Tanzania, it has also evolved and can be found in countries like Mozambique, South Africa, the Congo, and and even beyond Africa's borders.

1. Khangas have traditionally been used as clothing, but their significance goes beyond just fashion. In some cultures, khangas are used as full garments, passed down through generations as a way to store wealth. They are also often associated with significant life events such as weddings, symbolizing love, unity, the birth of a baby, or mourning.

2. The khanga's diverse patterns tell stories that transcend borders. While the fabric is deeply rooted in African culture, many of its designs are inspired by global influences, creating a unique fusion. The khanga fabric serves as a visual record of history, with symbols and images that capture significant events and figures. Through subtle symbolism and vivid imagery, kangas document the past, connecting cultures and generations.

3. The khanga’s design often includes patterns of small dots or speckles resembling the plumage of the guinea hen, which is where the name "khanga" originates from. This design element reflects its early use and cultural symbolism. According to legend, early kangas were created using dye made from tree bark and the artisans’ fingerprints, resulting in distinctive dot patterns. However, the true origins of the khanga's name and design are shrouded in mystery, with multiple theories existing alongside its rich cultural symbolism.

The khanga is a living piece of African history and culture, passed down through generations. Each piece tells its own story, wrapped in tradition, wisdom, and the beauty of African artistry.

Follow @candcafrica for more!

#candcafrica #gettoknowafrica #africanfashion #fashion #africa @africaculturecollection

Image source: Photo taken at a wholesale, Dar es Salaam (Tanzania), 2011, Photographer unknown

The influence of African heritage is evident in ev

The influence of African heritage is evident in every stitch, pattern, and fabric.

#candcafrica #gettoknowafrica #africanfashion #fashion #africa @africaculturecollection

What aspect of African fashion resonates with you

What aspect of African fashion resonates with you the most?

a) African textiles rooted in heritage, such as Bogolan, Kente, Shema, Adire, and Ankara.

b) Bridging history with modernity

c) Eco-conscious fashion

Share your thoughts in the comments below!

#candcafrica #gettoknowafrica #africanfashion #fashion #africa @africaculturecollection

Welcome to our latest series on African fashion! 🌍 🧵

Join us as we showcase the continent's rich cultural heritage through its diverse fashion landscape. Each thread weaves a captivating narrative, and every textile represents a tale of tradition, identity, and history.

Our exploration will delve into the intricate narratives woven into traditional African textiles, highlighting the profound connections between fabric and culture and how these timeless threads inspire and influence modern fashion trends.

Join us in celebrating the beauty and legacy of African textiles

#candcafrica #gettoknowafrica #africanfashion #fashion #africa @africaculturecollection

Throwback to Olympic Glory: Nigeria's 1996 Olympic

Throwback to Olympic Glory: Nigeria's 1996 Olympic Soccer Triumph!

Nigeria's triumph at the 1996 Olympic Games in Atlanta, USA, is still celebrated in the country and beyond its borders. The Super Eagles' @ng_supereagles electrifying performance, teamwork, and determination saw them defeat Argentina 3-2 in a thrilling final, securing Nigeria's first-ever Olympic gold medal in soccer.

From the unforgettable goals to the historic victory, this win remains a symbol of national pride and a testament to the incredible talent of Nigerian football.

Image credit: Pulse Sports

#candcafrica #gettoknowafrica #olympics2024 #africanathletes #supereagles #history @africaculturecollection

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