Mr. Jomo Tariku is an Ethiopian American artist and industrial designer that interprets ancient African designs to meet today’s contemporary style. His 20-year mission of bringing African art to the mainstream design industry is finally having its time with increasing, global demand.
His work features a refined African aesthetic with international appeal. Mr. Tariku describes his contemporary furniture as, “a wide variety of artistic designs that synthesize his own experience of the continents’ diverse culture, historical structures, architecture, traditional furniture, colors, artifacts, landscapes, wildlife and hair styles.”
One of his most renown creations is his Birth chair. This slanted chair is actually an African birthing chair that tilts the pelvis to facilitate an easier birthing process. The chair can be considered functional art based upon the removeable and interchangeable back rests that feature a variety of designs. The chair represents most African furniture that plays a duo role of functionality and decorating.
His Nyala chair is another collectible piece inspired by the Ethiopian mountain antelope. The chair and matching stool feature graceful and statuesque lines that evoke visual poetry.
All of Jomo’s creations are thoughtful and structured. They evoke a symbiotic balance of masculine and feminine. They are exquisitely beautiful with a profound presence that doesn’t overwhelm the senses.
International design platforms such as Dubai Design Week, Barcelona Design Week and Salone del Mobile in Milan celebrate Mr. Tariku’s talent. There was an eight-year span when his work was not seen nor gaining ground. After setting his designs aside, the keen eye of one astute person saw his work, published it and reset the trajectory of his career to its current status.
Jomo is one designer to watch and begin collecting. Visit his site to see all of his collections, concepts, videos and to purchase a piece.
In my opinion, Africa is the homeland of all civilizations and the source of originality across all sectors of life. It only makes sense that its pronouncements of beauty, intelligence and exemplary artisanship should have a more profound cultural and design significance in the mainstream furniture/interiors market.
All images ©Jomo Tariku
