INTERVIEWED BY Lindi Brownell Meiring IMAGES courtesy of Mmamotsatsi Masike
Design Indaba and the Department of Arts and Culture celebrated 16 years of the Emerging Creatives programme earlier this year, which gives 50 talented young designers a chance to show their work at the event. We caught up with Joburg-based interior and furniture designer Mmamotsatsi Masike.
How has working as a space planner informed your own practice?
Having worked as an interior designer who didn’t design furniture, I felt that some spaces lacked character. Yes, I could add wall, floor or ceiling finishes, but it wouldn’t add enough character to the space, and it left me with a feeling that something was missing from the design. I saw an opportunity to create statement, accent furniture pieces that could be used in spaces as an added “twist” – to bring the spaces to life and give them soul.
What do you love most about creating?
I love that creating is abundant. I love how the process has infinite possibilities and solutions – not just one correct answer, but an intuitive one. It is the act of mindfulness that I enjoy the most because it requires me to be my most authentic self. It’s like prayer or worship. It’s me being in an active state of listening to the silent space within; being able to feel the passion, love and grace that is in and around us; and being able to transfer and translate that energy/feeling into the creation of something deeper and bigger than myself.
Biggest inspiration?
The richness of the African continent’s culture and heritage.
Do you have any upcoming plans you can share with us?
For my work to get into art, design and cultural spaces. For some of my pieces to be on display in museums or galleries. For my company to be recognised. To get a range of clients, local and international. To showcase my work at the Milan Furniture Fair and London Design Week. I’d also like to collaborate with other creatives, such as Rich Mnisi, Trevor Stuurman and Laduma Ngxokolo.
Mmamotsatsi won the first annual Ravi Naidoo Residency for Emerging Creatives, and will spend an all-expenses paid residency abroad courtesy of sponsors Clout, the Nando’s Design Programme.
See more of her work at @designmuse_88 on Instagram.
