February marks Black History Month, a time to celebrate the rich tapestry of contributions made by Black individuals across various industries. Black creators have left and continue to make an indelible mark on the furniture and design industry, shaping the aesthetic landscape and inspiring generations to come. Today, we want to celebrate Black Excellence in Art and Design by paying homage to some remarkable figures who have made significant strides in these fields.
At the intersection of art and design, we find Ini Archibong, a visionary whose creations transcend mere functionality to become works of art. As a designer for MillerKnoll, Archibong's pieces are characterized by “a deep interest in master-craftsmanship and its intrinsic relationship to technology.” This interest has manifested in stunning products such as the Iquo Chair and Iquo Table. His designs evoke a sense of wonder, inviting viewers to contemplate the beauty of craftsmanship and innovation.
Malene Barnett is a multidisciplinary artist, textile designer, and community builder. As the founder of the Black Artists + Designers Guild (BADG), Barnett has emerged as a champion for Black creatives, creating a platform for collaboration, mentorship, and advocacy. Barnett's vision extends beyond individual success to foster a more inclusive and equitable design community, where diverse voices are celebrated and empowered. Through BADG, she is reshaping the landscape of design, ensuring that Black excellence is recognized and celebrated.
Industrial design takes on new dimensions in the hands of Jomo Tariku, whose creations pay homage to his Ethiopian heritage while embracing contemporary aesthetics. Tariku's furniture designs are a testament to the power of storytelling, seamlessly blending traditional craftsmanship with modern sensibilities. Through his work, he invites us to reconsider the narratives embedded in everyday objects and to embrace cultural diversity in design.
In the realm of interior design, Kelly Finley stands out as a trailblazer, infusing spaces with joy and vibrancy. As the owner of Joy Street Design, Finley was named one of Oakland’s Top Interior Designers. She brings a unique perspective to her work, striving to “fill you with happiness and pleasure, and in turn, add even more joy to your life.” Her projects reflect a deep understanding of her clients' needs, while also pushing boundaries and challenging conventions.
At the forefront of innovative design is Bibi Seck. Seck works alongside his partner (in business and in life), Ayse Birsel. Together, their design and innovation studio, Birsel + Seck, has produced thoughtful products such as Overlay, a moveable wall system, for MillerKnoll. Beyond their impressive resume of projects for world renowned companies, they engage in social design work to “bring the economic value of design to Senegal and other parts of Africa.” Their work challenges and inspires us to rethink our relationship with the objects that surround us.
As we celebrate Black History Month, let us remember that these individuals are not confined to a single month; their impact reverberates across generations. By celebrating their work year-round, we affirm the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion in these creative fields. Moreover, ongoing recognition serves as a catalyst for change, inspiring future generations of Black designers, architects, and artists to pursue their passions and make their mark on the world– just as these creators have done.
Also Read: Why Diversity in Design is Important
