Modern African Design Extraordinaire
Visually striking, yet effortlessly functional in any modern space, my work is rooted in Africa’s rich cultural heritage.
Jomo Tariku
Ethiopian American artist and industrial designer Jomo Tariku is defining a new language of modern African design by synthesizing his experience of the continent’s diverse landscape, indigenous cultures, architecture, colors, artifacts, dresses, and hair styles. His craft expresses a modern harmony of heritage, humanity and
design sensibility.
Jomo’s designs offer a new line of inquiry and experience of modernity while venerating the rich historical palette of Africa.
Intended to be heirloom pieces to be celebrated and enjoyed for generations to come, Jomo’s spellbinding designs breathe warmth and vitality into living spaces.
In 2017, He launched his namesake collection featured in numerous publications including Elle Decor, Architectural Digest, and Interior Design.
Famously, his Nyala, Qwanta and Meedo chairs as well as Watatu Stool series that were used as part of the Black Panther: Wakanda Forever stage design, representing his bold approach to design.
Jomo’s work is currently in the collection of major museums such as the Met and LACMA, and has been published in many shelter magazines. His data research on the lack of Black designers in the furniture licensing industry has been covered by many publications and is still quoted in various articles.
Jomo is one of the co-founders of BADG (Black Artists + Designers Guild) which promotes the work of Black designers globally while addressing lack of representation in the design world. During his stay in Ethiopia, Jomo has been giving lectures sharing his experience, such as at the Dashen Culture Club Culture Talk in the Hilton Addis Ababa.
Artist Statement
Visually striking, yet effortlessly functional in any modern space, my work is rooted in Africa’s rich cultural heritage. I aim to cultivate a lifelong appreciation for elevated modern African design, and to inspire a deeper and fuller connection to the continent. I weave the continent’s nature, art, and history within each piece I produce. Every design tells a unique story, with no detail overlooked or undervalued.
Check the website for a list of museum acquisitions, shows and awards, plus images of his designs.
Source: www.jomofurniture.com/about.html