Jimi Taiwo
In my thesis I bring together the rich traditions of Yoruba culture with modernity through the lens of graphic design and artistic experimentation. As a first-generation Nigerian born in the United States, my education is deeply rooted in western practices. I am on a quest to decolonize my worldview through an exploration of my heritage and traditions. This exploration is not just an academic endeavor but a spiritual practice. I aspire to reconnect with my ancestry and evolve the culture through the creation of innovative pieces.
My project focuses on integrating the history and cultural significance of textiles and attire in Yoruba societies through the lens of graphic design. This involves a multidisciplinary approach, embracing jewelry, stencils, zines, and other materials and methods to infuse Yoruba traditions into contemporary design. By examining the historical origins and cultural contexts of traditional garment-making practices in Yorubaland and the broader West African region, I am discovering how globalization and modernization have shaped these traditions and the innovative adaptations that have emerged.
The core of my thesis investigates how multidisciplinary approaches can uncover new and fascinating ways to create form, while also emphasizing the spiritual power and significance of cloth and traditions in the modern era. This project is a spiritual endeavor to combat the disconnection from my culture, ancestry, and heritage, emphasizing the importance of preserving and evolving the vast, complex, and beautiful Yoruba culture.