Design in West Africa: Unity in Multiplicity is an exhibition of contemporary West African design presented at the Palais de Lomé in Lomé, Togo. The show assembles over 20 designers, artists, and makers from across the West African region, featuring works that span furniture, textiles, craft objects, and material explorations. Participants include creatives from countries such as Nigeria, Côte d’Ivoire, Mali, and Togo, whose works draw on traditional craft techniques, local materials, and cultural practices anchored in community values. The exhibition reflects a range of approaches to form, materiality, and regional design identity within West African contexts.
The exhibition is staged within the cultural centre housed in the restored Palais de Lomé, a former governor’s palace that has been adapted as a platform for art and design. Curated under the theme "Unity in Multiplicity," the show highlights both the diversity and shared perspectives of designers working across the region. Works on display include hand-spun and woven textiles, woodwork informed by local traditions, and furniture shaped by Indigenous and contemporary influences. The exhibition runs through 15 March 2026.
West African Design Shows
Design in West Africa: Unity in Multiplicity is on at Palais de Lomé
Trend Themes
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Indigenous Craft Revival — A surge in incorporating traditional craft techniques highlights opportunities for preserving cultural heritage within modern design.
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Regional Design Identity — A focus on unique regional aesthetics showcases how localized design can establish strong cultural and market identities.
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Sustainable Material Exploration — Utilizing local materials can drive innovation in sustainable practices, offering eco-friendly solutions in design production.
Industry Implications
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Cultural Tourism — Exhibitions like the one at Palais de Lomé offer cultural tourism a way to attract visitors interested in diverse artistic expressions.
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Furniture Design — Innovations in furniture that blend Indigenous and contemporary influences present new directions for the global design market.
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Textile Manufacturing — The resurgence of hand-spun and woven textiles creates opportunities for growth in artisan-led textile production.