2023
Unique Work Material: wood (Spanish Lime)

@ibiyane

Martinique-based duo ibiyanε has handcrafted a wooden headrest as a symbol of gratitude to all those who have not only supported the designers’ dreams over the years, but who have also led by example, as dreamers themselves who continuously aim to regenerate our world.

The pair was inspired by African headrests first made in precolonial times, which were used as everyday and ritualistic pillows or stools, conceived as antennae to receive dreams and amplify messages from one’s ancestors. The Batanga words elombe and ikasa translate, respectively, to conversations and bridge. As the designers observe: “You either build walls or bridges between people.”

Informed by exchanges with family, friends, and community, ibiyanε’s work elevates the role of storytelling in design, and in turn nurtures conversations that center the design canon on the heritage of the African diaspora.