BLOKE [@bloke_ng] Explore Financial Freedom In SS21 Collection “Is It Ever Enough?”

BLOKE is a genderless artisanal label introducing a distinct notion of luxury through a Quirky and Artsy design aesthetic, enveloped with an undertone of spiritual consciousness. Founded by Faith Oluwajimi in 2015, to create well thought out garments and objects for its performative function and collectible purpose released its Spring-Summer 21 Collection visuals IS IT EVER ENOUGH?

BLOKE’s imagery for their Spring Summer 2021 collection explores the highs and lows of financial freedom. Believing that money is neither good or bad, this season BLOKE were drawn to the story of an individual who found financial freedom at a very young age.

Inspired by the story of Mansa Musa, who ruled Mali, one of the richest kingdoms in Africa, what was once a wealthy empire is now one of the poorest countries presently. With this tale came questions; is financial success liberating? How much money is too much money? Is it ever enough? When is contentment acknowledged?

Pastel colours and metallics formed the colour palette of BLOKE’s S/S 21 collection, inspired by the colours of the Nigerian Naira and Mansa Musa’s use of Gold as legal tender. Taking it a step further, BLOKE collaborated with Lagos based, Nigerian Artist and Illustrator Musa Ganiyy to create illustrations mimicking the figures on the Nigerian Note and Coins as well as a Portrait of Mansa Musa.

New York Based, Nigerian Artist Robert Matuluko also hand painted a rendition of an electronic payment teller receipt. Both works highlight contemporary forms of physical and digital legal tender which were then silkscreened on garments in the collection.

Check out more fashion content here