The inaugural Design Week South Africa, held in Cape Town, delivered an engaging exhibition that celebrated the continent’s rich tapestry of craftsmanship and creativity. Titled Africa Chair, the showcase highlighted 32 chairs from 12 African countries, representing a compelling fusion of historical significance and modern ingenuity. Curated by Marlon Leggat of Marlon James Interior Architecture and Charl Edwards of Lookbook Studio, the exhibition invited visitors to explore the narrative power of African chair design.
A Celebration of African Ingenuity
Held at Orms’ FORM Hall, the Africa Chair exhibition was born out of a desire to spark dialogue about what it means to be an African designer. “We wanted to showcase the ingenuity of African chair design, both historical and modern,” explained Leggat. With limited time and resources, the curators focused on sourcing pieces already in South Africa, ensuring the show was as comprehensive as possible under the circumstances.
Far from being definitive, the exhibition served as a celebratory starting point. “By no means did we capture every African chair worthy of representation,” said Edwards. “But this is about initiating a conversation, celebrating diverse stories, and honoring craftsmanship.”
To complement the chairs, the exhibition featured a seating installation by artist Lebo Kekana and furniture brand NISH, inspired by the traditional circular seating arrangements of Indigenous groups. This installation hosted a thought-provoking panel discussion on opening night.
Ten Chairs That Tell African Stories
Each piece in the exhibition carries a narrative, reflecting the diversity of African cultures, materials, and histories. Here are ten highlights:
- Traditional Tuareg Camel Saddle, Niger (19th Century)
This intricately crafted leather and copper saddle reflects the trade culture of the Tuareg people. More than a seat, it symbolizes resilience and adaptability in the harsh Sahara Desert.
2. Repaired Red Plastic Chair, South Africa (Unknown Designer)
Discovered in Khayelitsha, this chair features wire stitching that transforms a broken, mass-produced object into a testament to African resourcefulness and beauty.
3. Log Chair by Abel Zata, Zimbabwe (2005)
Carved from reclaimed mukwa wood, this chair embodies functional art. Its minimalist design aligns with the growing trend of organic brutalism.
4. Dumbia Chair by Cheick Diallo, Mali (2021)
Internationally acclaimed designer Cheick Diallo creates tactile masterpieces by weaving patterned ropes, blending aesthetics with functionality.
5. Boog Chair by Xandre Kriel, South Africa (2024)
Inspired by car suspension springs, this innovative chair comprises three metal components, showcasing engineering precision and design elegance.
6. Mahamb’ehlala Vessel Stool by Andile Dyalvane, South Africa (2020)
Part of the iThongo series, this ceramic stool honors Xhosa traditions and conveys themes of community, trauma, and rebirth through symbolic iconography.
7. Masaruma Stool by Ananta Design Studio, South Africa (2023)
This mushroom-shaped stool is crocheted from upcycled cassette tapes, reflecting the studio’s playful approach to modern aesthetics and sustainable design.
8. Traditional Burkinabé Armchair, Burkina Faso (2023)
This simple yet sophisticated chair, made of wood and goat leather, is a staple in Burkinabé homes, offering practicality and cultural significance.
9. Inhominável Throne by Gonçalo Mabunda, Mozambique (2012)
Crafted from disarmed weapons, this chair transforms symbols of violence into art, advocating for peace and reconciliation.
10. Joburg Chair 20 by David Krynauw Design, South Africa (2023)
Featuring textiles inspired by Eastern Cape’s Keiskamma Art Project, this chair celebrates oral histories and natural beauty through collaborative artistry.
Bridging Past and Present
The Africa Chair exhibition underscored the importance of acknowledging African designers and preserving their stories. “Too often, objects are displayed without the recognition of their creators,” noted Edwards. By highlighting names and narratives, the curators aimed to address this gap and honor the craftsmanship behind each piece.
As the first Design Week South Africa concluded, it left a lasting impression, not just as a platform for celebrating African creativity, but as a call to expand the conversation around design on the continent.
