Let's Talk: 31 Bits

31 Bits. That's the name of the company that basically has me going bananas right now. Kallie.  She's the founder of 31 Bits, also the "creative genius" behind the designs, company "visionary" and also (super exciting) the subject of today's interview!

Background. A few years ago, while hanging out in Kampala on breaks from Sudan, I would always find my way to one of the local markets and was excited to find these unique necklaces made from recycled paper. Fast-forward a million years and I still rock the necklaces I picked up there with just about everything in my closet (in fact, I'm rocking it right now)! As you can therefore imagine, I was super thrilled to discover 31 Bits because not only does this company modernize these pieces and then make them available to you right here in the U.S., but by providing an international market, they create sustainable sources of income for the Ugandan women that they work with. Their program not only gives these women the opportunity to sell to you, they provide training and resources to help these women create their own businesses to survive beyond their time with 31 Bits. Honestly - I just go nuts for this type of stuff!

But that's enough from me...let's turn things to Kallie....

What are 5 words that come to mind when you think about Africa? 

Adventure, Life, Hope, Courage, Fun

What led you to first visit the continent? My first visit to Africa was actually the summer between my junior and senior year of high school. I went to South Africa with a missions group. It was amazing and I loved being in a new environment and new people. My first visit to Uganda was in 2007 when I was planning on working at an orphanage. I ended up meeting some amazing women that were making beads which led me to create 31 Bits with the rest of the team.
 

What is one of your favorite memories from time spent in Africa or around Africans abroad?

One of my many favorite memories in Uganda was on a Saturday afternoon. I was walking on the trail back to our 31 Bits house when I saw a lady carrying a rolled up mattress on the top of her head. My first thoughts were "how is she carrying that!!" As we came closer to each other I saw it was Nighty, one of our 31 Bits Designers. She had the biggest smile on her face as she told me about her new mattress. Nighty had been saving her income at 31 Bits to purchase her 1st mattress in her entire life. This was more than just a cushion to sleep on, it was something that she purchased for her family. She was glowing with happiness and pride.
 

If you could go to one place on the continent right now, where would it be and why? Zanzibar. I visited a couple years ago and fell in love with the architecture, clear warm water, fresh seafood, and amazing people.

How did you first get interested in fashion and jewelry, and what made you decide to launch 31 Bits? I have always loved being creative and loved color. The brighter the better. My interest in jewelry didn't happen until 31 Bits, where I saw a need and saw I could make a difference. I decided to launch 31 Bits because of a need: women needed to provide for their family, they needed to be empowered and they needed to be surrounded in a community.
 

When you aren't taking working on this amazing business, what else do you like to do? I love being in nature. This could involve biking the board walk, hiking in State Parks, running or laying on the beach watching my husband surf. I love anything nature :)
 

Where do you find inspiration when coming up with a new collection? It all starts with Color for me. I think that good color combinations is what makes a good line. I get inspired by being in new places. New places just makes you so much more aware of what is around you, this sparks new ideas and inspirations!

What's been the biggest challenge so far in launching and running a business such as this? It is a lot of work! I love traveling and seeing new places but with a start up business I can't just up and leave for a month or two at a time. I have had to come to peace with it, I would never choose any other life!

What has been your proudest achievement? It will be here in January. Our first group of Designers will be graduating our program with their own businesses. They will be self-sustainable and providing for their families through their businesses. I am so excited, we have been watching them dream and develop their businesses over the last 3-4 years. They are so proud of themselves and so excited for their future. It will be an amazing graduation party!
 

What is the best lesson you've learned so far? DREAM and dream BIG!
 

What dream would you still like to fulfill? I am a person full of dreams, so to choose one is hard. If I had to choose one it would be to start a bed and breakfast in the Caribbean with my Husband. We love scuba diving, warm weather, and new challenges.
 

What is your personal soundtrack right now? I love dancing and cooking Italian to Madeleine Peyroux. Best nights ever. 

Thanks Kallie!!

{Photos: 31 Bits}

Interview on AfriPOP

For those of you curious to know a bit more about me behind the scenes, check out this interview I recently did with AfriPOP. Big thanks to editor Phiona Okumu!

Let's Talk: Rui Tenreiro

Today, I'm so excited to share with you this virtual interview that I recently had with Mozambican artist Rui Tenreiro. It's one thing to come from one of my most favorite countries in Africa (admitted I've only been to a few), but add the talents of drawing, storytelling, textile design and pottery and you have a whole other story! All those things, and so much more, just barely begin to describe Tenreiro. The artist spends his time between Sweden (where he recently finished his MA) and his hometown of Maputo. In addition to having two books under his belt, Tenreiro also runs a small publication, Soyfriends. But let's dive straight into the conversation....

What are the first five words that come to mind when you think about Africa?

Home, fish, wood, smoke, school.

What is one of your favorite memories from time spent in Africa or around other Africans abroad?

My favorite memories from home are spending time with friends and family and enjoying the good things of my hometown, Maputo, like eating out and going to cultural events; and also just generally walking around the streets.

If you could go to one place on the continent right now, where would it be and why?

I’m curious about Luanda because it’s the ‘other’ Portuguese-speaking country in Southern Africa.

Many people who have not been to Mozambique (or anywhere in Africa) either have no idea what the country is like or have a lot of pre/mis-conceived ideas about the country, what is one thing that you think someone would be surprised to learn or see in Maputo or other parts of Mozambique?

I think anyone may get surprises anywhere in the world. For an African, going to Europe or America is very exotic and full of surprises. I’m hoping that people realize that, just as it is tempting for some tourists to photograph and pose next to Masai people in Kenya, it might be equally tempting for an African to photograph a Geisha in Japan, a Sami person in Scandinavia, or a cowboy in America.

It’s hard for me to tell about this. But, as a city, I think people might be surprised at how much cultural activity there is in Maputo, despite the lack of funding for culture by the government.

What do you miss most about Mozambique when you are in Sweden or outside the continent?

People, food, the careless wondering around with friends. I do miss the fact that time seems to stretch. I also miss the fruits, the swimming, and driving by the seaside. I don’t miss the bureaucracy, police and corruption. They’re problems that need solving.

How did you first get interested in design/ illustration/storytelling, and what made you decide to pursue this as a career?

I always drew, so it just seemed natural to continue. I initially did advertising art direction but the Ad industry can be really lame at times. Some of my friends sort of had a mid-twenties crisis, when they became so tired of the advertising world that they thought of dropping the whole thing. At the moment, drawing is the only thing I can do, and I don’t mind that.

When you are not coming up with amazing stories, what else do you like to do?

I’m happy you think they’re amazing. I like to read. I love good art house/independent films because I was never exposed to that while growing up. So when I finally discovered there was a whole world of good films out there, I never tired of watching them. I read the news almost everyday, I listen to music everyday, work out, nothing out of the ordinary. I like going out for a beer. Sometimes a beer alone while reading a good book or drawing is the perfect thing to do. The occasional Japanese-style karaoke and skiing trip is also something that I like doing. And let’s not forget food. I like to cook.

Where is your favorite hang out spot?

My great studio, where I spend most of my days. I sometimes enjoy simply being at home doing nothing, just wasting time; waking up late and having breakfast at lunch time. When I’m back home in Maputo my favourite spot is the new café that opened in the old Parque dos Continuadores in Maputo. But my favouritest is probably Piri-Piri, a very old and relatively affordable restaurant in central Maputo.

What is your personal soundtrack right now?

Hard one. very mixed. I discovered Glenn Branca only the other day. I’ve been into that. Different Trains by Steve Reich is one of my favourite albums. Most stuff by Ivor Cutler is amazing. But also Animal Collective, Ariel Pink, Adam Green. I recommend ubu and if you have Spotify, my current favourite playlist is Parables & Parallels.

Who or what has been your greatest inspiration?

Many people and things. Music and things I read. I prefer the dark stuff. I like dramas where things don’t end happily. Of course I like happy stuff too. But I always go back to the grim, dark stories. That’s much more interesting for me.

What has been your proudest achievement?

To write a story, a graphic novel that I liked (the Celebration) and having it published in five different languages. And to write for film — which we are shooting in Mozambique this year. It’s an adaptation of a short story by Albert Camus for which we got support from the French Cooperation in Mozambique and the Mozambican Cinema Association. Adapting it made me write one more script afterwards. That might stay in the drawer. Or it might be made. Never knows.

What is the best lesson you've learned so far?

I think that maybe I don’t learn so fast. I have this feeling I’m getting less wise with age. Some more wisdom would be good. Maybe it’s the stubbornness that gets in the way of wisdom. That could be it.

What dream do you still want to fulfill?

I’d like to live from my art and personal work, and not from commercial jobs.

While that may be the end of this interview, I know you are remain curious to find out even more about Tenreiro. First you can check out this excellent piece that he wrote about his own experiences as a white African artist. Of course there is also his website, tumblr and of course you can also find him on twitter!

{Photos: via Rui's website + tumblr}

Let's Talk: Naana B

I always love interview time! Naana of Naana B recently found me on twitter and when I checked out her site, my jaw did a little drop thing that let's me know that I'm in love! Needless to say, I was very excited when she agreed to answer a few questions about herself and her company....

What are the first five words that come to mind when you think about Africa?
Potential, Promise, Survival, Vision for Tomorrow

What is one of your favorite memories from time spent in Africa or around other Africans abroad?

I grew up in Zambia. Spent my childhood there. I have such fond memories of blush gardens, lots of laughter and a greater sense of community. We were always surrounded by a lovely energy. One was never "alone." I think Africa provides a greater platform of togetherness. At home "you are one with many."

If you could go to one place on the continent right now, where would it be and why?

I have traveled all over the continent, but there are many many places I would like to return to. I would love to go back to the Ngorongoro Conservation Park in Tanzania that has some of the most beautiful wildlife in the world. I'd be interested to see how it has progressed or whether the conservation efforts have been compromised.

How did you first get interested in fashion design, and what made you decide to pursue this as a career?
I studied visual arts as an undergrad at Columbia University in NYC. I studied steel sculpture and painting. I created installation art using fabric and that's how I became familiar with sewing and textiles. From there I took supplemental classes at Parsons and FIT to hone my skills and started designing shortly thereafter.

When you are not coming up with amazing designs, what else do you like to do?

I love to sketch and paint whenever I can. I also draw inspiration from visiting the museums in NY and seeing what artists are up to. That influences my work.

Where is your favorite hang out spot?

New York has a lot of options! I love Joe's Pub for live shows - my art haunts are the Metropolitan Museum of Art and Brooklyn Museum.

What is your personal soundtrack right now?

I love South Africa music, so I have a variety in rotation, as well as Brazilian music. But I'm a loyal Miles Davis fan. Jazz is my foundation.

Who or what has been your greatest inspiration?

My mother continues to be a great source of inspiration. The NGO, the Rural Communities Empowerment Center (RCEC), which she founded in Ghana, produces the Naana B line. Its really wonderful to be a part of that project.

What has been your proudest achievement?

I think my proudest achievement is being able to give back in some way. That gives life meaning. I'm doing my part in small ways - and I think the focus should continue to be on Africa and what more we can do.

What is the best lesson you've learned so far?

Life is full of lessons. The fashion business teaches you alot. You must believe in what you're doing and be positive.

What dream do you still want to fulfill?

I'm based in NYC now, but would love to spend time in Africa again on a permanent basis and see where my story may take me - working on it.......to be continued.

{Photos: Naana B}

P.S. for those of you in NYC, you can purchase Naana B's goods at Georgia Boutique in Soho

Let's Talk: John Newdigate

Not so long ago, I featured the work of ceramists John Newdigate. Well today we get to learn a little more about John as well as check out some of his new pieces...

What are the first five words that come to mind when you think about Africa?

Warmth, Colour, Vastness, Agelessness, Exploitation (All of the above: metaphorically and literally...)
What is one of your favorite memories from time spent in Africa or around other Africans abroad?

A childhood spent in a quaint fishing village, an enclave of tolerance and acceptance, called Kalk Bay. Time spent as a boy going out to sea on the old wooden fishing boats.

If you could go to one place on the continent right now, where would it be and why?

Ghana - to meet the people who spin, dye and weave the fabrics that I admire so much.

How did you first get interested in ceramics, and what made you decide to pursue this as a career?

As a child, a family friend - an exceptional woman - allowed me access to her ceramic studio. It was love at first squelch (of clay). After working in a commercial graphic-design studio for two years, I knew that I could not make the most of my creativity in that environment, so I decide to do my own thing......that was 18 years ago!

When you are not coming up with wonderful pieces, what else do you like to do?

Walk on the mountains nearby with my dogs.
Where is your favorite hang out spot?

Any pristine natural environment, preferably involving mountains and the ocean.
What is your personal soundtrack right now?

Birdsong.
Who or what has been your greatest inspiration?
Nelson Mandela, for so many reasons.

What has been your proudest achievement?

To have the courage to follow my dream, and earn a living from my creative endeavours.
What is the best lesson you've learned so far?

Honesty is always best in the long run.
What dream do you still want to fulfill?

Design and build houses and furniture, while still having the time and energy for my ceramics!

{Photos: courtesy of John Newdigate}

Let's Talk: Michael Tsegaye

Having dropped the ball a bit since the summer on these interviews, I'm picking it up again with a quick chat with Ethiopian photographer Michael Tsegaye. I can't remember where I first came upon Michael's images, but since I did I've been wanting to share them with you. When he responded to my request for this interview, I was very psyched to learn a little more about this photographer whose work I find so inspiring.

What are the first five words that come to mind when you think about Africa?
It makes me wonder what it was life before colonization.
What is one of your favorite memories from time spent in Africa or around other Africans abroad?
Working and parting in Accra, Ghana.
If you could go to one place on the continent right now, where would it be and why?
Angola, because the Embassy of Angola in Addis is making it difficult to go to my exhibition there.
How did you first get interested in photography, and what made you decide to pursue this as a career?
It was by chance I got in to photography
When you are not coming up with amazing photographs, what else do you like to do?
Spend my time with my mother
Where is your favorite hang out spot?
In Addis Ababa there are few bars I like to go.
What is your personal soundtrack right now?
Wild Cat - Ratata
Who or what has been your greatest inspiration?
The people who are very close to me.
What has been your proudest achievement?
Being what I am.
What is the best lesson you've learned so far?
The best lesson I have learned is to see, observe, and look deeply.
What dream do you still want to fulfill?
To have a solo show at the TATE and MOMA.

(Photos: Michael Tsegaye)

Let's Talk: Malene B.

Oh boy, it's interview time and today I have the wonderful Malene B. sharing a bit of her time with us. For those of you who don't already know, Malene is an African-American carpet designer based in Brooklyn, New York. As you can easy see from the carpet designs in this post and throughout her site, Malene's work is very much inspired by her world travels but especially by her time spent in various countries throughout Africa and her overall passion for the continent. Her experiences on the continent not only play a role in her textile designs, but clearly make their way into her home as greatly captured by The Selby a few months ago.

What are the first five words that come to mind when you think about Africa?

Colorful, Diverse, History, Beautiful, Strong

What is one of your favorite memories of time spent on the continent?

Going to Ghana in 1995 and experiencing the Ashanti King Otumfuo Nana Opuko Ware II celebrating his silver jubilee and his 75th birthday. The Ashanti King ruled for 25 years and this was a once in a lifetime event. The stadium was brimming with so many people that they appear to be a sea of colorful dots. I was also lucky enough to have the opportunity to walk to visit and take pictures of the Chiefs and Queen Mothers from around Ghana and neighboring countries in the stadium before the festivities.

What first led you to visit Africa and how did you know that it would become a major inspiration for your work?

During my last year of high school I became culturally aware of my African heritage; I discovered through the arts of Africans and in the Diaspora that art is spiritual, cultural, functional and meaningful. I wanted to stay true to my cultural traditions, so I incorporated my heritage into my work; creating functional works of art.

After reading numerous books about the continent, I of course wanted to visit. Nothing beats experience you gain from having first hand knowledge of a place or culture to complete your experience.

What country on the continent would you most like to visit and why?

I have a few places in mind: Mali because I love their textiles, wood carvings and architecture. I would to see their largest mosque that’s made out of mud in Djenne, Mali. And Dogon Country where there is amazing stone architecture within the cliffs of the mountains, and weavers and painters making Mudcloth. Ndebele in South Africa who paint their houses in amazing colors and graphic patterns; it’s been very influential in my work. Also, Morocco to see their amazing tile work, experience the food and to explore the markets; Tanzania to check out their potato print fabrics and lastly Seychelles, Madagascar and Cape Verde Islands.

When you are not traveling and designing carpets, what do you like to do?

I like to go to cultural events, restaurants with an international flair and I also enjoy cooking and entertaining at home.

Where is your favorite hang out spot?

No particular spot. I love walking the streets of New York; you can discover so much.

What is your personal soundtrack of the moment?

Lost in Love by Jonathan Butler, I just keep playing the song over and over

Who or what has been your greatest inspiration?

All of the people I surround myself with continue to encourage and support my endeavors

What has been your proudest achievement?

Maintaining a career in the arts

What is the best lesson you've learned so far?

No matter what you do in life someone will always have something to say about your decision. The key is to make your decisions based on what’s going to make you happy rather than others.

What dream do you still want to fulfill?

Learn a second language; I was really good in French back in the day. Hopefully one day I will really be able to become fluent. Also to have a second home in a warm climate country, so I can leave the states when it’s cold and return for the spring and summer.

What book and/or magazine are your reading right now?

House Beautiful, Uptown Magazine and Write it Down Make it Happen by Henriette Anne Klauser.

Clearly this is a woman after my own heart! Not only do I love her designs but my obsession with color and open, cheerful spaces mean that she would literally have to get kicked out of her home! I honestly can't wait to see how both she and her business evolve with time!

Thanks Malene!

{Photos: Malene B. & The Selby}

Let's Talk: Tessa Frootko Gordon

Ahh...today brings another installation of the Let's Talk series and as usual, I'm very excited about today's guest. I've been in touch with South African photographer Tessa Frootko Gordon since early May when she got in touch with me regarding this post and over the months, I've enjoyed getting to know her a bit more and getting to explore her amazing photography. While being based in the Boston area, Tessa frequently travels back to South Africa throughout the year as well as spending time exploring other countries, including the Caribbean nation of Grenada which has been the focus for a lot of her work in recent years.

Out of our various threads of communication, one that really stands out is when Tessa asked why I was interested in the images that you see here (and a few that aren't here). First it was cool because I'm usually the one asking the questions when it comes to these interviews, so it was nice for the tables to be turned a bit. Second, I loved being questioned about my choices. When it comes to many creative images or designs, I usually go with what my gut tells me so in answering her question, I really got to explore why my gut is drawn to certain things and not others. But without getting too deep into the weeds, let's see what Tessa has to share with us....

What are the first five words that come to mind when you think about Africa?

Solid ground beneath my feet.

What is one of your favorite memories from time spent in Africa or around other Africans abroad?

For a brief period leading up to the 1994 elections in South Africa I was part of the group in Boston organizing absentee ballots. South Africans voted at the Massachusetts State House. The experience was surreal and overwhelming. The SA flag was raised and we sang the SA National Anthem on the State House steps. I remember having a bouquet of yellow flowers and being dressed in the green yellow and black colors of the ANC.

What is one thing that you think someone would be surprised to learn or see in South Africa?

People may be surprised to find that South Africa is both a first and third world country; that it is so geographically, climactically and culturally diverse. South Africans talk of “ubuntu”- a common humanity and interconnectedness that I think surprises visitors most. A recent example of “ubuntu” is the camaraderie and hospitality expressed by South Africans during the recent world cup.

If you could go to one place on the continent right now, where would it be and why?

Zanzibar- For its location, its Muslim influence and because I am fascinated by the insular nature of islands.

When did you first get interested in photography, and what made you decide to pursue this as a career?

I always wanted to draw or paint but didn’t have the aptitude. Photography seemed to come naturally. I would walk around framing things in my mind. I worked as a clinical social worker for about 10 years, photographing in my spare time. In the early 80s I took a workshop with a the late New York photographer, Lilo Raymond. Then 60,Lilo had started on a successful photo career at aged 40. She became my mentor and urged me to consider photography as a career. I was 35 when I quit social work and started art school. Had it not been for Lilo’s encouragement and support I might still be a social worker.

What brought you to the U.S. and particularly to Boston?

In a word: Apartheid. I became aware of Apartheid’s injustices when I was about 8 and grew up believing I would eventually leave. My husband and I were both activists. The events of 1976 seemed to make the decision for us, and we left with no set agenda, looking for a country. I still do not know whether this was a correct moral choice even though we continued our activism in the US. We came to Boston because just after we arrived in the US my husband was offered a job here. It was totally serendipitous.

When you are not taking stunning pictures, what else do you like to do?

I work on photo illustration, make journals combining image and text, and take classes in digital imaging. I serve on the boards of a regional symphony orchestra and the cultural alliance of my city. I also follow contemporary singer songwriters and current trends in photography. I am active in progressive Democratic Party politics and mentor a Women’s sewing and beading project in South Africa. I am a magazine junkie, Internet surfer and collector of trivia and the absurd. I also love to bicycle.

Where is your favorite hang out spot?

In Cape Town: The Olympia Café, Kalk Bay, Cape Town

In Boston: The De Luxe Town Diner in Watertown. The nicest people and world’s best pancakes

What is your personal soundtrack right now?

“Waving Flag” by K’naan.

Who or what has been your greatest inspiration?

My Mother

What has been your proudest achievement?

Ten years ago I may have thought my proudest achievement as something career related. I now measure achievement in terms of what I do in individual relationships and relationships with community. Caring for my mother during the ten-month illness leading to her death is undoubtedly the thing I have done best and of which I am proudest of in my life.

What is the best lesson you have learned so far?

The best -sometimes painful lesson- I continue to learn is to trust my instincts

What dream do you still want to fulfill?

I am working on a photographic book about the island of Grenada. My dream is to make this a tangible record of my love of Grenada and evidence of a passionate photographic life.

There are so many great aspects about this interview starting with "solid ground beneath my feet!" I really hope you have enjoyed this chat now all you need to do if click over to her site to explore so much more of her beautiful images.

Thanks Tessa!

{Photos: Tessa Frootko Gordon}

Let's Talk: Anita Quansah

Have I told you how much I love getting emails and comments from you?!? Whether you are just stopping by to say hi or telling me about something amazing you or someone you know is doing, it's truly a treat every time I get a message from you!

One recent message came from Nigerian/Ghanaian textile and jewelry designer Anita Quansah based out of London. As some of you may know, I have a major obsession with textiles of all nature. So it should come to no surprise that I was very excited (think jaw dropping to the floor) to learn about an African textile and jewelry designer, especially one with amazing work! Her work has been featured in German and British Vogue (as seen here) among others and she has collaborated with designers ranging from Mr. Christian Lacroix to DKNY and Diana von Furstenberg. But rather than going on and on about my excitement, let's hear from the designer herself:

What are the first five words that come to mind when you think about Africa?

Friendly, Beautiful, Vibrant, Rich Cultures, and amazing Fashion

What is one of your favorite memories from time spent in Africa or around other Africans abroad?

For me Africa holds many fun memories. It is hard to choose but I will say the wonderful people and rich cultures.

If you could go to one place on the continent right now, where would it be and why?

I would love to explore the whole of Africa, starting with South Africa. I would visit the Zulu and Ndebele tribe. These beautifully enriched (culturally) ethnic groups, I find extremely interesting and inspiring. I have referenced these culture a lot in my jewellery collections. I would also love to visit their vibrant and colourful homes.

How did you first get interested in textile design, and what made you decide to pursue this as a career?

I love fashion and all things beautiful. I guess this interest/passion for design and creativity stems from my early childhood, watching grandmother, a seamstress, teaching and making the most beautiful clothes from very interesting and embroidered textiles. Her passion for creativity, her energy and her determination is what drove me to start experimenting at a very young age. I guess also being brought up around women and watching their different styles evolve also had an impact on me.

Also after years of selling my luxury handmade couture fabrics to renowned fashion designers, I wanted to create a fashion line that people could not only learn about the intricate techniques used and see the true value of it, but also fall in love and own a piece of a true wearable art. Then in 2004 Anita Quansah London the fashion line was launched. Since then, the line has proven very successful, sold out in the Laden Showroom London which was the first ever boutique that stocked the line, from then, I went on to sell on Asos online which too was very successful. Now I am designing a range of neckpieces to accompany the fashion line.

Do you think your background as an African has any influence on your work as a designer and if so, how?

My cultural heritage has had a huge impact on my work. Coming from a mixed African background half Ghanaian and half Nigerian has exposed me to a lot of rich African traditions, cultures with rich materials and textiles. The bold and vibrant colours in Africa are phenomenal. I try to inject these into my work a lot. I have incorporated in the past rich luxe African prints in my work mixed with vintage materials such as 1940 pieces and new materials such as chains, pearls and shells, which is amazing, it gives it a totally new look which is rare.

When you are not coming up with wonderful designs, what else do you like to do?

When am not designing, I love to visit Art Museums and galleries. Visiting latest exhibitions.

Where is your favorite hang out spot?

For shops I love to hang out in Selfridges, Harrods or Liberty. And most of the time vintage shops down Brick Lane London

What is your personal soundtrack right now?

Right now I'm loving a Nigerian artist Banky W.

Who or what has been your greatest inspiration?

I draw inspiration from Culture/travel, Nature, Art, Fashion present and past, music of past and present generation. Most of the time culture and nature has had a huge impact in my design. For nature inspired design I look to great artist such as Monet, Gustav Klimt and Robert John Thornton as well as the ever changing beauty that surrounds nature the tone, patterns, placement and proportion.

What has been your proudest achievement?

Collaborating with Great designer and couturier Mr Christian Lacroix, for his Spring/Summer 2004 Haute- Couture show in Paris.

What is the best lesson you've learned so far?

These three key words: Dream, Believe, Achieve

What dream do you still want to fulfill?

I hope to have made the brand more successful, and a household name, have designs both fashion, interior and jewelry stocked in African Boutiques, and big department stores worldwide. But most importantly, to maintain the value of my craftsmanship and keep my creative spirit alive.

So I know...you just can't get enough of her designs and maybe even want to pick a piece or five up for yourself, well you can find oh so much more on Anita's website, via Flickr, Not Just a Label, and Shrimpton Couture.

{Thanks so much for joining us Anita}

{Photos: Anita Quansah, Deustche Vogue, Pref Magazine}

Let's Talk: Bia van Deventer

Remember back in April when I was tell you about my growing obsession with illustrations and digital art? Well, that obsession continues! I love seeing great digital art and looking through portfolios of great artists. One such artist that I came across that I love is South African Bia van Deventer and I'm really glad to feature our virtual conversation with you today!

What are the first five words that come to mind when you think about Africa?

Culture, Potential, Freedom, Sun, Bliss

What is one of your favorite memories from time spent in Africa or around other Africans abroad?

Last December, going on a game farm in Mpumalanga and ending up in the middle of 200 water buffaloes at night, scary but amazing.

Many people who have not been to South Africa either have no idea what South Africa is like or have a lot of preconceived ideas about the country. What is one thing that you think someone would be surprised to learn or see in South Africa?

South Africa has a thriving creative community who actually contributes significantly in the global market. I'm sure quite a bleak picture is painted about South Africa regarding issues such as poverty and crime which tends to cause the conception that all facets of South African society and culture are undeveloped and second rate. Well it would astound those who labour under this misconception that South African creatives win a significant number of awards each year be it One Show awards for advertising or Grammies for music we bring them home by the shipload annually and we have even had judges on the Cannes Film Festival for a number of years running.

If you could go to one place on the continent right now, where would it be and why?

Egypt, I went there in 2005 and would love to go again! I love the rich history and museums!!

How did you first get interested in graphic design, and what made you decide to pursue this as a career?

The fine arts were just about all I excelled in at school so when it came to choosing a career graphic design was the natural progression.

When you are not coming up with wonderful graphics, what else do you like to do?

Going to the movies at the Labia, going to the beach and spending time with my family and friends.

Where is your favorite hang out spot?

Ricks Cafe - Kloof street ... it's a literal replica of Ricks Cafe featured in the movie Casablanca.

What is your personal soundtrack right now?

Broken Bells, Fleet Foxes, Cocoon

Who or what has been your greatest inspiration?

The Australian company Mash Design. Their delicate use of texture, layout and typography, combined with interesting new ideas, keeps me in awe.

What has been your proudest achievement?

Going on my own. I love every moment of it.

What is the best lesson you've learned so far?

If you lose, don't lose the lesson.

What dream do you still want to fulfill?

To travel the entire world, have my name on the cover of Vogue, live in New York and visit India.

Wasn't that great?! I especially love hearing from entrepreneurs who are out there following their dreams on their own terms - so inspiring. Be sure to check out more of Bia's amazing work right here on her site.

Thanks so much Bia!!

{Photos: Bia van Deventer}