Imane Ayissi: From Africa to the World

Step into the world of Imane Ayissi, a visionary designer who is reshaping the fashion landscape with his bold and beautiful garments. The SCAD FASH Museum of Fashion + Film’s latest exhibition, “Imane Ayissi: Africa World,” is a must-see for anyone who appreciates innovation, cultural richness, and of course, impeccable style. Ayissi’s story is one of deep connection to his Cameroonian heritage. His designs are a vibrant tapestry of tradition and modernity, as he skilfully incorporates time-honoured African textiles into his creations. But Ayissi is more than just a keeper of tradition; he is a forward-thinking artist who breathes new life into these ancient materials.

A guest of the Fédération de la Haute Couture et de la Mode and recipient of the Chevalier de l’Ordre des Arts et des Lettres, Cameroonian designer Imane Ayissi creates garments that aesthetically blend African craftmanship and hallmarks of the French sensibility.

Frequently incorporating exquisite Lyon silk as well as natural and upcycled materials, his meticulous designs are sumptuous constructions that emphasize corporeal movement, stemming from his background as a dancer and model. Dedicated to amplifying the culturally rich textile and sartorial heritage of Africa on the international stage, Ayissi reexamines and challenges the Western-oriented world of haute couture. With an emphasis on traditional elements from across the continent, his couture pieces prominently feature raffia, Obom bark cloth, Faso Dan Fani stripes, and Kente cloth. Journeying through more than 40 signature looks, the designer’s debut solo exhibition Imane Ayissi: From Africa to the World embodies his singular energy, contextualizing his role within Africa’s larger contributions to fashion while expanding understandings of global luxury.

Imane Ayissi: From Africa to the World is curated by Rafael Gomes, creative director of the Savannah College of Art and Design’s Fashion Museums [SCAD FASH museums]. Ayissi’s pieces are on display from 28^th September 2024 to February 23^rd 2025

Imane Ayissi was born in Cameroon to a family of artists and sportsmen. His father was a champion boxer, his mother was Miss Cameroon 1960, and his brothers and sisters are dancers and singers. As a member of the Cameroon National Ballet, he toured internationally while also working as a model for brands including Cardin, Dior, Lanvin, Givenchy, Yves Saint Laurent, and Valentino, as well as appearing in various editorials and campaigns with renowned photographers.

Ayissi became interested in fashion at a young age, making garments for his mother and later for one of the largest ateliers in Cameroon. Relocating to Paris, he began designing small collections and made-to-measure pieces for private clients. In 2010, Ayissi debuted at Paris Haute Couture Fashion Week.

In 2020, he became the first sub-Saharan designer to be invited to show on the official Haute Couture calendar in Paris as a guest member of the Fédération de la Haute Couture et de la Mode. Ayissi focuses on ethical and sustainable production with a deep respect for traditional craftwork, almost exclusively using natural and organic materials. He supports various skills-training projects fostering economic growth in Cameroon and throughout Africa.

Source: https://www.scadfash.org/