A cool new collaboration by Karabo Poppy X Woolworths celebrates heritage and our diversely rich South African Roots. We chat to Photographer Celeste Jacobs and Creative Director Savannah Feeke-Fortune about the design process behind their striking shoot for the range.

Tell us a bit of background about yourselves.

Savannah: I was raised in the Cape but I currently reside in Joburg. An interesting by-product of the last few years is people’s willingness to collaborate cross-country, so as much as I am here in Gauteng, I feel no distance or dissonance with creatives elsewhere – even across our borders. I recently set up my Friends and Family agency. This is not an exercise in cronyism or nepotism, but there is something to be said in working with people I trust – and there is no one I trust more than my friends and family within the creative sector. There is an innate shorthand that also expedites projects and tasks that is priceless. 

Celeste: I’m a Kimberley-born, Cape Town-based editor, writer and photographer, with a background in psychology. My images celebrate nostalgia and embrace sentimentality while pursuing spaces that evoke a sense of calm in a fast-paced world. I’m a self-taught photographer who specialises in 35mm and medium film.

Tell us about what the collection is all about?

Savannah: Karabo ‘Poppy’ articulated it best, when she spoke about the visual aesthetic that is so unique to Africa, and how the collection conveys this through its own aesthetic of constant innovation and hybridity. It’s about celebration and preservation in a keenly South African way. 

What was the brief for the shoot?

Savannah: To show that home is where the heart is – physical environment can be barren and without any of our preferred comforts, but the presence of those we love is really all we need to change a space from strange to structured.

Celeste: Essentially to capture the Karabo Poppy x Woolworths collection. I knew we wanted to capture the images in a way that speaks to Karabo’s collection and that heroes the feelings that family and a sense of belonging evoke. We did this in a subtly surreal way – creating a home in a natural, but stark environment – but filling it with what actually matters and what actually binds us together.

How do you feel you encapsulated Heritage through your shoot?

Savannah: As a coloured woman, Heritage Month is usually tinged with a sense of the bittersweet. I am acutely aware always that it’s a fine line between cultural appreciation and celebration, and appropriation. It is an intentional commitment to giving flight to others without setting down patronising parameters based on our own internalised prejudices. From the moment the designs were briefed into Karabo, I ruminated on what would be a universal South African message that could speak to all of us. The images my subconscious flung at me were all immersed in the sense of home – a pink door, a blue comb, the faces of those I love dearly. Ultimately, those informed the shoot and became the foundation for the entire theme.

Celeste: I think when you work with an artist whose work is so much of a celebration of our continent and the people of our continent, combined with the sense of unity that the collection represents and the energy on set, that feeling comes through. It’s there in moments that feel tender between loved ones, the intention behind the work and the courage that goes along with that.

Did you have any other ideas before you decided on this one?

Savannah: Sometimes life is a lighthouse – without even realising it, your inspiration comes without any kind of concerted thought or effort. This is one of those times. The first idea was the only idea, and also turned out to be the best one. 

What was it like working with such an esteemed SA designer and brand?

Savannah: I feel blessed that Karabo chose me as her manager and constant companion. I am able to bear witness to the unqualified love and care with which she approaches every partnership, and I bask in the associated sunshine that comes from this positivity. What made it even more wonderful wasn’t simply the fact that we were collaborating with an industry giant like Woolworths, but that their team matched our enthusiasm at every juncture. It was a true collaboration in every sense of the word.

Celeste: An absolute honour. Karabo is just so incredible and somebody whose work I’ve always admired and respected. Woolies is also just such an iconic brand. The collaboration between two powerhouses and at that scale is something to behold. I felt the magnitude of it for sure! I also really value the trust that comes from shooting film – particularly now in the commercial sense – I can’t show you the shots while I’m taking them. The trust in that process meant the world to me.

What was your favourite part of the shoot?

Savannah: That the shoot was framed within family, and that I took part in it with my actual family. How amazing to work with a team of meticulous, inspiring people, and to be awed by the knowledge that this is my family. I am overjoyed to participate in an experience that shows the world just how many amazing people we each know – and I now have a phenomenal photo shoot with my incredible mom to show off! 

Celeste: The entire process was truly special – I think seeing it brought to life and following through on the intentions set made each aspect so meaningful. Everyone involved in making it happen also just added to the experience and elevated the project with their skills – super thankful to have been a part of such an amazing team.

Do you have a favourite shot?

Savannah: I have two: 

I love the dichotomy of the photo of my mom, where she is standing with the pink door and the misplaced chair and lamp. There is something extremely stylised about it, but at the same time, the familiarity of the deep connection to my mom gives it a normal and natural feel. It echoes the concept of the matriarch – a familial role that exemplifies both structure and sanctuary, offering a place of safety but within discipline.

The second is the picture of Karabo and Zara. You know the trend of writing your younger self a letter, with words of wisdom and advice learnt after years of experience. With this picture, I tried to make that conversation more reciprocal. I styled Zara’s hair based on how Karabo wore hers as a child of a similar age, so the photo is almost Karabo with her younger self – the Karabo of now is protective of the innocent child she once was, and Zara as her younger self brings a playfulness and pride of her older self to the photo. 

Celeste: I loved the shots of Karabo, her brother Lebo and her Dad. I could feel the genuine love and respect they have for each other throughout the day – it was really beautiful to witness.

What advice do you have for any up-and-coming young photographers wanting to get into the game?

Celeste: Everyone has their own approach – but I think even if you go slower, start small or need to pause for a bit – put one foot in front of the other. Don’t be afraid to pursue something if it matters to you – just take a route that makes sense at the time. Also, don’t be an island. There’s so much value that comes from a sense of community and collaboration. Find people who share a similar vision or values – and enjoy the process together.

Future plans?

Savannah: I want to continue to pour myself into projects that fill my cup. I want friends and family to continue to be a place that feels familiar and like home. This means creating a space that is mutable enough to invite innovation without losing the sense of refuge that we have established.

Celeste: In a nutshell – to keep writing, shooting, loving and resting with intention. 

Credits

Models: @karabo_poppy, Mr Moletsane, Lebo Moletsane, Wilma Feeke, Zara Jacobs, Mackenzie Chamberlain | Collaborating Artist: @karabo_poppy | Agency: @friendsandfamilyagency_ | Creative Director: @savannah.feeke.fortune | Photographer: @_celestejacobs | Producer: @a.typical.millennial | Stylist: @durand.tania5 | Hair and Makeup: @unswayedbeauty

The post Karabo Poppy X Woolworths Heritage Collection Shot By Celeste Jacobs and Savannah Feeke-Fortune appeared first on Visi.

A timeless decor trend, black and white can be seen throughout recent history, from the Victorian era and the Art Deco period to the 1970s Korean Dansaekhwa style of painting and contemporary Scandinavian design. Here are 10 pieces to keep in mind for your home.

Stua Eclipse Nesting Tables

POA | CREMA

Shop

Circular Wall Shelf

R480 | Deft

Shop

Corr Medium Pot

R499 | Country Road

Shop

Laurence 3-seater Couch

R9 700 | Cielo

Shop

Soho Bowl

R79.95 | Studio W

Shop

VISI X Skinny laMinx BREEZE Throw

R2 425 | VISI Shop

Shop

Writers Desk

R1 600 | MRP Home

Shop

Resin Tumbler

R129 | @home

Shop

Husk Desk Lamp

R899 | Superbalist

Shop

Sugar Cube Side Table 

R1 749 | Popstrukt

Shop

Looking for more local buys? Here’s 11 statement table lamps for your home and our favourite new coffee table books.

The post 10 Monochrome Buys For Your Home appeared first on Visi.

Table lamps serve a practical purpose, and are essential to any lighting scheme – but they should also look fabulous while shining their light.

Whether you’re illuminating a cosy reading nook, adding flair to a bedside table, or elevating your living room decor, the right lamp can transform a space. From sculptural designs to vintage-inspired pieces, these statement table lamps combine style and practicality, proving that lighting can be both fun and functional. Here, our pick of stunning lamps that will shine beautifully in any room.

Statement Table Lamps to Brighten Your Space with Style

The Sculptural Baobab Lamp

Function meets art with this lamp, which was designed by the talented Maria Magdalena Atelier, and created by Palmy Living in collaboration with ceramic artist Corinne de Haas.

POA | palmyliving.com

Blowtorch Lamp

This sculptural, hand-thrown terracotta lamp from Dokter + Misses has roots in industrial tools. It makes a fun addition to any bedroom or office.

POA | dokterandmisses.com

The Paradise Light

Arrange Studio took inspiration from the Birds of Paradise and the many colours found in nature when creating this dreamy light. Each light is made with a golden colour on the inside of the top shade to emit a golden glow when turned on. Magical!

R6 800 | arrangestudio.co.za

152 Desk Lamp

The Dokter + Misses 152 desk lamp packs alot of punch into a stripped-down design

POA | dokterandmisses.com

Taché

Creative-Cables Taché is inspired by one of the most beloved objects of the design world: the paper clip.

R1 673 | creative-cables.co.za

Hightower Lamp

Using raffia for both base and shade, the Hightower lamp from Studio19 is a textural feast.

R7 000 | studio19.co

Gubi’s 5321 lamp

Gubi’s 5321 lamp (available at Crema), originally designed in 1941 by Paavo Tynell, is the epitome of vintage romance and femininity

POA | cremadesign.co.za

Geometric Table Lamp

Pedersen + Lennard have made the perfect bedside or occasional lamp. It has a simple and functional design which fits in well to any home decor style.

R1 595 | pedersenlennard.co.za

Law and Disorder Lamp

This lamp from OKHA is made using mirror-polished stainless steel sheets. Three equally proportioned trapezoid shapes connect to form the lamp base, which in turn connects the equilateral triangle to the shade.

POA | okha.com

Don’t forget to sign up to our weekly newsletter for the latest architecture and design news.

The post 9 Statement Table Lamps for Your Home appeared first on Visi.

In search of the perfect gift? Not only can you visit VISI’s online shop, where you’ll find a range of locally designed buys, created exclusively for VISI, we’ve also rounded up a list of 33 more gift options for you to browse and buy online. Happy shopping!

1. Cat & Carnations A5 Art Print R250, Andrea Liang at KNUS

2. Victoria Luxury Gin Classic Pink Gin (750ml) R459, Yuppiechef

3. Emerson Pot Spring Range R290, Plantify

4. MSock5 R250, MAXHOSA AFRICA

5. Coco Balm R110, OrchidBloom for Jimnojean

6. Beyond Your Years A4 Print R480, Amy Ayanda

7. The Khaya Leather Waistbag – Scatterbrain Print R2 290, Valoyi

8. Pier Carafe Set R349, Country Road

9. Hand-painted Mini Purse (Spring) R250, Ilundi

10. The Prettiest One Digital Collage (Edition 1/3) by Balekane Legoabe R1 950, StateOfTheArt

11. Net Bags R1 150, Mia Mélange

12. Irotemari Glass Flower Pot R400, WAZA

13. Secco Festive Gin Infusions R149, Yuppiechef

14. Chilli Infused Olive Oil (200ml) R89.99, Woolworths

15. Moon Bag (Flare) R495, Sealand

16. Rest A3 Print R380, Ishaarah Arnold

17. Wellbeing Happy Waxfill Candles R99.99 – R159.99, MRP Home

18. Suntory Whisky Toki R399, Makro

19. Lemon Slice Pillow Cover R565 – R640, Skinny laMinx

20. Ouroboros Earrings R1 450, Pichulik

21. Hemp Face Cleanser (200ml) R195, Goodleaf

22. Palm Pendant R150 – R255, Ghost Goods

23. U Mug R279, Le Creuset

24. Faatimah Mohamed-Luke X MRP Home Colab Beach Blanket R299.99, MRP Home

25. 5-Pack Chocolate Slabs R240, Honest Chocolate

26. Miir Wide Mouth Bottle (590ml) Artist Series: PJ Offner, R950, Just Like Papa

27. Tote Bag R390, Sama-Sama

28. The Droplet Earrings in Yellow Gold with Agate R2 900, Dear Rae

29. Instant Vortex Air Fryer (5.7L) R2 599, Instant Pot

30. Pill Hanging Pot Plant Holder (ceramic pot included) R799, Native Décor

31. Stem Green Handles Laptop Sleeve R520, Zana

32. Planter/Storage Basket R385, The Joinery

33. Nutribullet Pro 1000 R3 199, Makro

Find more gift ideas at shop.visi.co.za.

The post 33 Great Gift Ideas appeared first on Visi.

From a 3D mural and an art-inspired collaboration between VANS and MoMA to a chrysalis-inspired chandelier, these are the top VISI picks of the week series – week 350.

1. Leon Keer’s Teacup Mural

Dutch street artist Leon Keer has created a 3D mural in Sweden, entitled Shattering, that collapses when scanned with your phone. This work is a comment on the fragility of life and the delicate balance between nature and ourselves. Augmented reality designer Joost Spek assisted Leon with the technological aspects of the design, making it an interactive experience for both the creators and spectators.

Image credit: Leon Keer via mymodernmet.com / Video via leonkeer on YouTube

2. willowlamp Cocoon Light

Award-winning local lighting design studio willowlamp’s latest chandelier, the Cocoon, is an evolution of the brand’s existing Pod pendant lamps, featuring a wider chrysalis-inspired basket in a horizontal chandelier form. “There is something quite powerful and evocative about these forms which symbolise transformation and rebirth,” says willowlamp Founder and Creative Director Adam Hoets. “The simplicity of the form gives it a minimal feeling – sleek and elegant – and therein lies its beauty. A purity that is found in and inspired by nature.”

Images courtesy of willowlamp.com

3. Vans Collaborates With MoMA

Vans has collaborated with the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) on a limited run of special-edition footwear and apparel, launching on 30 September. The collaborative collection highlights some of the museum’s most renowned artists. The initial range will include artwork by Salvador Dalí, Vasily Kandinsky and Claude Monet, followed by a second artist release later in the year, which will include Edvard Munch, Jackson Pollock and Lybov Popova.

Images courtesy of Vans

4. Mo’s Crib Collaborates With Woolworths

Woolworths has teamed up with local home decor brand Mo’s Crib, headed up by Pretoria-based sister duo Morongwe ‘Mo’ and Michelle Mokone, on a range of sustainable woven baskets and planters. Suitable for use inside and outdoors, the collection is hand-made using natural fibres from ilala palm leaves. The grass woven range is available in a variety of sizes and includes options with or without handles and lids.

Images courtesy of Woolworths

5. Petoi’s Robotic Dog

Petoi Bittle is a small, palm-sized robotic dog (we previously featured Nybble, a robotic cat) that is assembled from a series of pieces and programmed with downloadable GitHub demo codes. Teach your robodog tricks to win prizes and rank up during community challenges, using Arduino boards, Raspberry Pi or AI chips to inspire its animal-like movements and actions. Find out more about the Petoi Bittle on Kickstarter here.

Images via Petoi / Video via Rongzhong Li on YouTube

Browse more like VISI picks of the week series – week 350 on picks of the week 138.

The post VISI Picks of the Week Series – Week 350 appeared first on Visi.

Looking for a special gift this Father’s Day? Here are 25 options you can choose from online, from chopping blocks and charcoal soap to portable speakers and locally produced brandy.

1. MiiR Wide Mouth Bottle from R650, Just Like Papa

2. Barstow Black Round Leather Watch R3 399, Fossil at Watch Republic

3. Tall Shade Black & Gold Empire Pendant R2 900, Hoi P’loy

4. Delicious Monster Hanging Plant R550, Opus Botanical Studio

5. Ultimate Ears Wonderboom Speaker R1 499, Homechoice

6. bread+butter XO Bourbon Cask Finish Brandy R550, Pienaar & Son Distilling Company

7. Porg Pie Bird R365, Le Creuset

8. Crystal Green Sunglasses R2 150, Ray-Ban at Sunglass Hut

9. Aeri Tea Towel (pack of 3) R249, Country Road

10. Dorper Pinotage 2017 R195, Publik

11. Charcoal Soap R150, Africology

12. Bleu de Chanel Eau de Parfum Spray (50ml) R1 535, Woolworths

13. CHOOB M_Breeze Duffel Bag R1 895, Sealand

14. Preserving: Conserving, Salting, Smoking, Pickling by Ginette Mathiot (Phaidon) R539, Yuppiechef

15. Tanzania Coffee R80 – R320, Bean There

16. WYWH Tote Bag R420, Stiebeuel

17. Round Oak Chopping Block R1 599, Laid Back Company at Yuppiechef

18. Edo Cats Craft Beer Glasses (set of 3) R750, WAZA

19. Compact Arcade Game R299.99, Typo

20. 70% Dark Chocolate R50, Honest Chocolate

21. Bloukrans Pot Plant Holder (ceramic pot included) R599, Native Decor

22. Treasure Map Socks R120, Feat. Sock Co.

23. Opinel Collectors’ Tray of 10 Stainless Steel Knives R1 725, Just Like Papa

24. Chef’s Apron R525, Mungo

25. Tokyo Carafe R250, Woolworths

The post 25 Father’s Day Gift Ideas appeared first on Visi.

As it gets chillier, we’ll be spending even more of our time indoors. If you feel like you need to add a cosy touch to your space, browse this list of 20 buys you can find online, from a comfy bean bag and snug blankets to weaving kits and string lights.

1. Mini Weaving Kit R950, Zana

2. Marcato Atlas 150 Manual Pasta Machine R1 849, Yuppiechef

3. Russell Hobbs 1.7 Litre Pyramid Kettle R949, Yuppiechef

4. Logo Beanie R350, Stiebeuel

5. Wild Lemongrass Soy Candle R299, Anke Products at Superbalist.com

6. Cocotte Every R2 990, Le Creuset

7. Paint By Numbers R199.99, Typo

8. Check Design Mug R59.95, Woolworths

9. White & Brass Bureau Lamp R3 290, Hoi P’loy

10. Casper Knit Cushion Cover R279, Superbalist.com

11. Ginger Cake Home Fragrance R170, Amanda + Jayne at Jimnojean

12. Endless Summer Art Blanket by Janet Lightbody R3 800, Something Good Studio

13. String Lights (180 cm) R110, MON Exteriors

14. Pomona Bean Bag R1 499, Superbalist.com

15. Charleston Rug (120 x 170 cm) R3 300, Esque

16. Tapas Noodle Bowl R149, Country Road

17. Terbodore Coffee Roasters Mocha Java Coffee Beans R85, Yuppiechef

18. Delft Hot Water Bottle R550, Babylonstoren

19. Nespresso Gran Lattissima R5 999, @home

20. Jacquard Cable Throw (150 x 200 cm) R199.99, MRP Home

The post 20 Winter Buys You Can Find Online appeared first on Visi.

Looking for the perfect Mother’s Day gift? While deliveries will only take place once lockdown has come to an end, you can still order online.

From textile studio Skinny laMinx’s Good Vibes Kit to porcelain earrings by Nina Bosch, keep these 26 buys in mind.

1. Lumiére Skin Oil R380, Jimnojean

2. Chocolate Coated, Roasted Almond Nougat Gift Box R95, Ma Mère Confections

3. Rilki Cheese Knife Set R299, Country Road

4. Cahoots Diamond Earrings R695, Missibaba

5. Tesora Glass & Brass Box R699, Umbra at Superbalist.com

6. Good Vibes Kit R408, Skinny laMinx

7. Hammered Short Tumbler in Smoky Brown R85, Poetry

8. Wooden Footed Cake Stand R550, Woolworths

9. Jammie Mellow Bag R1 750, Sealand

10. Itawuli Hand Towel R270, Mungo

11. Grace Watering Can Small R399, Present Time at Superbalist

12. Hummingbird Bottle Stopper R275, Carrol Boyes

13. Lipstick Vine R250, Plantify

14. Breadbin R1 095, Pedersen + Lennard

15. Iris Socks by Togetherness R125, Feat. Sock Co.

16. Energising Body Balm R270, Lulu & Marula

17. Banana Leaf Platter R1 300, Bordallo Pinheiro

18. Growbag Regular Yellow Planter (small) R150, Faithful to Nature

19. Mini Metal Drinking Bottle R139.99, Typo

20. Free As a Bird Print R380, Wonder Meyer Illustration

21. Eva Solo Wall Mounted Bird Feeder R699, Yuppiechef

22. Deep Cleansing Powder R238, Skin Creamery

23. Hammered Earrings R470, Nina Bosch Porcelain

24. Smeg Electric Citrus Press R2 499, Yuppiechef

25. Tom Ford Eau de Soleil Blanc R2 500, Edgars

26. Keep It Together Pencil Case R139.99, Typo

The post 26 Mother’s Day Gift Ideas appeared first on Visi.

Happy 2020! It’s a new year, which means it’s a good time to give the spaces you spend the most time in a bit of a refresh. Why not start with your workspace? Add any of these fun (and functional) items to your desk.

1. Desktop Organiser – Multi R249, Superbalist.com

2. Memo Block R99.99, Typo

3. Terrazzo Book Ends R399, Superbalist.com

4. Jungle Soft Cover Notebook R120, Wonder Meyer at Jimnojean

5. Metal Paper Holder R139.99, MRP Home

6. Bulldog Clip R69.99, Typo

7. Arc Ceramic Reusable Cup R179, Country Road

8. Jewelled Aloe R50, Plantify

9. Electric Yellow Notebook 2-Pack R140, Satori

10. Dopper Water Bottle (Sunshine Splash) R199, Yuppiechef

11. Alma Photo Frame R299, Superbalist.com

12. A4 Weekly Planner R149, @home

13. Business Card Holder R440, The Joinery

14. Square Terrazzo LED Light R199, Woolworths

15. Thea Desk Clock R449, Country Road

The post 15 Back-to-work Buys For Your Desk appeared first on Visi.

Looking for the ideal gift? We’ve rounded up a few ideas for you to choose from, including beach towels, belts and bluetooth speakers.

1. Addon t3 Bluetooth Speaker R3 699, Audiopro at Superbalist

2. African Milk Tree R140, Plantify

3. Beau Beach Towel R449, Country Road

4. Belt R1 100, Chommies

5. Men’s Lilly Pilly Socks by Togetherness R150, Feat. Sock Co.

6. Brass Glass Lantern R999, Woolworths

7. Desk Clock R449, Superbalist.com

8. Stockholm Single Hook R270, Pedersen + Lennard

9. The Coral Ring in Silver R490, Dear Rae

10. Clinton Friedman Serving Tray R429, Yuppiechef

11. The Everyday Cream R350, Skin Creamery

12. Pastel Marble Paddle Board R350, Poetry

13. Gucci Bloom Eau de Parfum R1 150, Edgars

14. Personalised A3 Collage Poster R159, Nifty 250

15. Folly Beach Towel R870, Mungo

16. Roku Gin Giftpack R279, Makro

17. Packable Duffle R699, Herschel Supply Co. at Superbalist

18. Transit Metal Drink Bottle R299, Cotton On

19. Recycled Plastic Bottle Travel Tote R980, The Joinery

20. African Coloratum Colouring Book R220, Plantify

21. Wild Cat Picnic Blanket R1 500, Love Milo

22. Bon Voyage Plate R460, Waza

23. Compact Arcade Game R199.99, Typo

24. Mini Quilted Crossbody Bag R459, Zara

25. SunnySide Gold Tea Towel R220, Skinny laMinx

The post 25 Great Gift Ideas appeared first on Visi.