In an era dominated by speed and instant gratification, a powerful movement is taking root in Nigeria's creative scene. A new generation of Nigerian makers is reclaiming the art of craft, not as a nostalgic look back, but as a bold act of resistance.
The Philosophy of Patience and Purpose
This cultural shift found a powerful platform at Design Intersect 2025, an ambitious design fair curated by Tola Akerele, the newly appointed Director General of the National Theatre. Akerele, known for her work with iDesign and SOTO Gallery, has long championed design that tells stories about identity and intention.
The fair's theme, "Reimagining Resources," challenged participants to see beyond scarcity and explore the potential of local materials like metal, raffia, clay, and leather. This vision aligns perfectly with The Balvenie's global philosophy of craftsmanship, which celebrates patience, purpose, and permanence in creation.
Showcasing Nigerian Innovation
The exhibition featured groundbreaking works that demonstrated a deep reverence for process and material. Lani Adeoye's "Talking Stools" were eight years in the making, hand-shaped from natural materials to honor the intimate relationship between maker and medium.
Kanyinsade Ademuson's "Fold V1 Chair" showcased how traditional metalworking could meet contemporary minimalism. The chair was precision-cut from steel sheets without welding, significantly minimizing waste.
Among the most compelling voices was John Asuquo, whose Uyai Vessels merged terracotta and bronze to explore the beauty of imperfection. Her "Objects of Experience" series transformed everyday items into artistic meditations, while the Oculus piece drew inspiration from the human eye to engage both sight and emotion.
Tradition Meets Contemporary Design
The design practice ONWU, founded by Marizu Onwu and Onwuguzo, presented Adala—a modern reinterpretation of brass anklets historically worn by Igbo women as symbols of prestige. These were cleverly manipulated into vessels for plants and jewelry.
Ifedoyin Shotunde's Ketega Mat demonstrated how tradition can travel and adapt without losing its essence. Inspired by Japanese tatami mats, it was crafted entirely from local Nigerian materials.
Through curated whisky tastings and storytelling experiences, The Balvenie's partnership with Design Intersect 2025 created a meaningful dialogue about the values shared between Scottish whisky-making and Nigerian design—proving that true mastery lies not in speed, but in substance and soul.
