Tejumola Maurice-Diya Showcases Africa's Fashion Heritage

Tejumola Maurice-Diya, a cultural archivist at the IAF, is leading the "Inside Africa Fashion 54" exhibit, which documents Africa's fashion heritage from 54 countries. This initiative, resulting from nearly two years of work, aims to preserve African narratives and perspectives in fashion.

Maurice-Diya highlights the importance of indigenous textiles, such as Aso Oke, and discusses the shift among young Africans towards these traditional fabrics. The exhibit serves as a platform to bridge generational gaps and promote African creativity on a global stage.

Maurice-Diya's research included visiting Oyo State to learn about the history and production of Aso Oke, revealing its rich cultural significance and the evolution of its craftsmanship. The project also seeks to raise awareness about Africa's diverse textile heritage, encouraging appreciation for indigenous designs beyond popular prints like Ankara.