In its fourth edition, Nairobi Design Week 2019 unfolded as a captivating exploration of how East Afrikan heritage has not only shaped the world we live in today but also how design, as a dynamic force, continues to influence the cultural narrative we will pass on to future generations. From March 17th to March 23rd, the city of Nairobi was transformed into a vibrant hub of creativity and innovation, with events spanning across iconic venues like The Alchemist bar, University of Nairobi, and for the first time, the prestigious Nairobi National Museum, where an inspiring exhibition ran for six weeks.
At the heart of the week-long celebration was the theme of “Resource & Community,” a motif that resonated deeply with attendees and participants alike. It sparked new connections, fostered meaningful dialogues, and provided a platform for introspection on the role of design in shaping our collective future. One of the standout events was “Careers in Design,” hosted at the University of Nairobi in collaboration with the Design Students Association. This event offered budding designers and seasoned professionals a unique opportunity to showcase their work, engage in interactive portfolio workshops, and network with industry mentors, enriching their professional development journey.
Among the esteemed speakers featured during the week was James Shaw, a renowned fine objects designer hailing from south London. Shaw’s studio specializes in the design and manufacture of bespoke furniture, products, and sculptural objects. His international acclaim, including exhibitions at the Design Museum and The Irish Museum of Modern Art, added a global perspective to the local narrative of design.
Another captivating highlight was the “Workshop – Nairobi Tour” organized by Workshop Nairobi. The tour provided visitors with a behind-the-scenes look at their design process, offering insights into their product manufacturing and showcasing their plush furniture collection. As a gesture of appreciation, the first visitors were gifted photo stands, adding a personal touch to their experience.
The “Free Mind Sessions,” held at the Nairobi National Museum’s amphitheater, provided a platform for an intimate panel discussion. The panel, featuring industry stalwarts such as Lulu Kitololo, Chepkemboi Mang’ira, Bryan Graff of Matwana Matatu Culture, and Isa Mohamed of Black Rhino VR, was hosted by Nyacomba ‘Jonas’ Githu and Lindsay Obath. Attendees were given the opportunity to share their thoughts, ask questions, and engage in insightful conversations, further enriching their understanding of design’s impact on society.
Nairobi Design Week 2019 was made possible through the generous support of sponsors like Aurecon and Elite Digital, along with a host of partners, including Nairobi Design Institute, UN Habitat, Precious Plastics, Flip Flopi, Ark Africa, Kounkuey Design Initiative, TechForTrade, Sandstorm Kenya, Soko, International School of Kenya, and many more. Their collective efforts ensured that the week-long celebration of design, heritage, and community was a resounding success.
Highlights:
- Careers in Design: Hosted at the University of Nairobi in collaboration with the Design Students Association, this event provided students and professionals with opportunities to showcase their work, participate in portfolio workshops, and network with industry mentors.
- James Shaw: A fine objects designer from south London, James Shaw, specializes in the design and manufacture of bespoke furniture, products, and sculptural objects. He has exhibited internationally, including at the Design Museum and The Irish Museum of Modern Art.
- Workshop – Nairobi Tour: Workshop Nairobi organized a design tour of their space at Nairobi Design Week 2019, showcasing their product manufacturing process and offering visitors a chance to relax in their plush furniture. The first visitors received photo stands as gifts.
- Free Mind Sessions: An intimate panel discussion at the Nairobi National Museum’s amphitheater allowed attendees to share their thoughts and ask questions. The panel featured Lulu Kitololo, Chepkemboi Mang’ira, Bryan Graff of Matwana Matatu Culture, and Isa Mohamed of Black Rhino VR, hosted by Nyacomba ‘Jonas’ Githu and Lindsay Obath.
Expert Speakers:
- Lulu Kitololo: Designer, Illustrator & Author
- Chepkemboi Mang’ira: Founder of Creative Penguin
- Bryan Graff: Matwana Matatu Culture
- Isa Mohamed: Black Rhino VR