African Design Legacy Goes Global: Nasozi Kakembo's Guide to Authentic Decorating

Slow Style Home: Decorating Personal, Meaningful Interiors

In this episode, I interview Nasozi Kakembo, author of 'African Decor Edit,' who shares her experiences traveling across Africa meeting artisans, and creating home accessories. Nasozi's book underscores the importance of understanding the cultural context behind African decor, highlighting 16 significant objects and how they are artfully incorporated into homes around the world. She emphasizes the historical and regional significance of these pieces, often misrepresented by colonial borders. Nasozi shares fascinating stories, including her challenging experience making Batik in Ghana and her insights on the cultural symbolism of the Juju hat from Cameroon. We also discuss ethical shopping practices and the creative adaptations of African design elements in various global homes, including her own. The conversation touches on the balance between appreciating and respecting cultural artifacts and the unfortunate rise of mass-produced imitations. Through her work, Nasozi advocates for supporting authentic African artisans and preserving the integrity and beauty of their craft.

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