Two Become One

  • Wemi Aluro
  • Bubu Ogisi

This is us and Iamisigo pay homage to the rich and diverse narratives that shape Nigeria’s cultural landscape. Our collaboration draws inspiration from the nomadic style of the Fulani, reimagined through a contemporary urban lens. The collection also embodies the indomitable spirit of Queen Amina, the historic warrior queen of the Zazzau Kingdom in Northern Nigeria.

The collection delves into the expansive historical legacies of Nigeria. It explores the conquests of Queen Amina, which expanded the Zazzau Kingdom in the 16th century, and the Fulani migration that dates back to the 14th century. Additionally, it celebrates the diffusion of masquerade culture across communities in South Eastern Nigeria by the Mkpa societies of Opobo Kingdom. The collection represents the idea of cultural expansion beyond geographical boundaries and limitations of space and ideas.

Iamisigo’s signature patchwork style, known for its intelligent construction, merges seamlessly with This is us indigo-dyed Nigerian cotton. The cotton is dyed using traditional techniques dating back to 1498 in the ancient Kofar Mata pits, showcasing a harmonious fusion of ancient craftsmanship and contemporary design.

The colour palette of the collection takes inspiration from the uniforms of the Mkpa societies of Opobo Kingdom. The striking combination of Red, Indigo, and Ivory pays tribute to the symbolic significance of “Ofo na Ogu” and the “Iye Eke.” Red symbolises vigour and strength, and it is worn by Ofo na Ogu during their water-bound activities. Blue, on the other hand, holds a spiritual essence and is reserved for land-based rituals, according to a common myth.

Both Iamisigo and This is us share a passion for creative expression through textile and material exploration. Our distinctive artistic expressions are seamlessly translated into designs that embody the richness and diversity of Nigeria’s cultural tapestry.

This is us and Iamisigo pay homage to the rich and diverse narratives that shape Nigeria’s cultural landscape. Our collaboration draws inspiration from the nomadic style of the Fulani, reimagined through a contemporary urban lens. The collection also embodies the indomitable spirit of Queen Amina, the historic warrior queen of the Zazzau Kingdom in Northern Nigeria.

The collection delves into the expansive historical legacies of Nigeria. It explores the conquests of Queen Amina, which expanded the Zazzau Kingdom in the 16th century, and the Fulani migration that dates back to the 14th century. Additionally, it celebrates the diffusion of masquerade culture across communities in South Eastern Nigeria by the Mkpa societies of Opobo Kingdom. The collection represents the idea of cultural expansion beyond geographical boundaries and limitations of space and ideas.

Iamisigo’s signature patchwork style, known for its intelligent construction, merges seamlessly with This is us indigo-dyed Nigerian cotton. The cotton is dyed using traditional techniques dating back to 1498 in the ancient Kofar Mata pits, showcasing a harmonious fusion of ancient craftsmanship and contemporary design.

The colour palette of the collection takes inspiration from the uniforms of the Mkpa societies of Opobo Kingdom. The striking combination of Red, Indigo, and Ivory pays tribute to the symbolic significance of “Ofo na Ogu” and the “Iye Eke.” Red symbolises vigour and strength, and it is worn by Ofo na Ogu during their water-bound activities. Blue, on the other hand, holds a spiritual essence and is reserved for land-based rituals, according to a common myth.

Both Iamisigo and This is us share a passion for creative expression through textile and material exploration. Our distinctive artistic expressions are seamlessly translated into designs that embody the richness and diversity of Nigeria’s cultural tapestry.

Issue 7

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