The Power of Industrial Design in Redressing Injustice: Honoring African Textile Traditions and Promoting Sustainability

The Power of Industrial Design in Redressing Injustice

As a brand that offers textile products for fashion, medical, and household applications, we take pride in our commitment to sustainability and social responsibility. Our products are made in Africa, utilizing natural fibers and following circular production practices. However, we also recognize the need to extend the reach of industrial design to address histories of injustice and promote justice, redress, and reconciliation.

One inspiring example of how traditional textile design and manufacturing can be informed by a methodological approach that centers justice is Koumbi-Saleh. With their tagline “Interwoven Textiles: Giving Traditional African Textiles Connective Power,” Koumbi-Saleh combines design, theater, and history to inform the production of textiles that serve as objects of healing.

Revitalizing Traditional African Textile Design

Koumbi-Saleh takes the traditional African textile as a starting point and explores the research question: How can African fibers be used as materials to develop a sustainable, soft, and attractive textile material for everyday wear? One central material to our brand is raffia, specifically raffia bamboo. This material holds immense potential due to its abundance, fast growth, and affordability.

By incorporating raffia bamboo into our textile production, we not only create beautiful and functional products but also contribute to the preservation and promotion of African cultural heritage. This approach allows us to honor the traditions and craftsmanship of African textile design while embracing modern sustainability practices.

Extending the Reach of Industrial Design

To extend the reach of industrial design in redressing histories of injustice, it is crucial to adopt a holistic approach that encompasses various aspects.

1. Collaboration: Working with local communities, artisans, and experts in African textile design ensures that the production process is inclusive and respects the knowledge and skills passed down through generations. This collaboration fosters a sense of ownership and empowerment among the communities involved.

2. Ethical Sourcing: By sourcing materials responsibly and ethically, we can ensure that our production processes do not contribute to any further exploitation or injustice. This includes considering fair trade practices, supporting local economies, and promoting transparency throughout the supply chain.

3. Education and Awareness: Promoting awareness about the rich history and cultural significance of African textiles is essential in challenging stereotypes and misconceptions. By educating consumers about the value of these textiles, we can create a demand for sustainable and ethically produced products, thus encouraging other brands to follow suit.

4. Social Impact: Industrial design can have a profound social impact by creating job opportunities, empowering marginalized communities, and promoting economic growth. By prioritizing fair wages, safe working conditions, and skill development, we can contribute to the overall well-being and empowerment of the individuals involved in the production process.

By embracing these principles and integrating them into our design and production processes, we can extend the reach of industrial design to redress histories of injustice. Koumbi-Saleh serves as an inspiring example of how traditional textile design can be reimagined to promote justice, redress, and reconciliation while creating beautiful and sustainable products.

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