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Design//Life Africa

A brand-new magazine celebrating the style and soul of Zimbabwe and its incredible creativity.

02/12/2024

Isn’t it so annoying when you’re constantly reminded that Christmas is fast approaching and today there are only 23 days until Christmas?

Oh. Wait.

Sorry.

To make amends, we’d like to suggest you take a trip to Kwamambokadzi (KWM), the most beautiful store in Mount Pleasant that will put paid to all your Christmas shopping dilemmas.

As well as exquisite jewellery by Niiunia, leather goods and books and art, KWM also stocks furniture by Zimbabwean design company Pachipamwe; we’re a big fan of its work and its tables and chairs have featured several times in Design//Life magazine. There’s a fabulous collection of Pachipamwe’s work on display at KWM, but Pachipamwe also does bespoke, so you might even get a little something for yourself at the same time. Christmas is all about giving, even if it’s to yourself, right?

Kwamambokadzi, 4 Brighton Road, Mount Pleasant, Harare.

27/11/2024

The run-up to the holiday season is always jam-packed, and this year is no exception: Zimbabwe is pulling out all the festive stops to make this weekend a cracker (🤦‍♀️ sorry, couldn’t resist).

And don’t forget to book your tickets to the Zimbabwe Hip Hop Awards, taking place on 23 December at the Royalgate Gardens. Tickets available at www.flippintickets.co.zw

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26/11/2024

“I like black because it’s all colours mixed up,” says Paidamoyo Edgar Sajeni. “Most importantly, we all bleed red. Let’s spread the love for humanity.”

Sajeni’s latest show, “The Protagonist” - the second in his “Black Narratives” series - is currently showing at the National Gallery in Mutare. In this exhibition Sajeni’s prints and paintings are peppered with African symbols - and he’s quite the sage of semiotics, having studied the subject for seven years. “I aim to push true narratives of the Black experience, promoting unity and understanding through my art,” he says. “I’m intrigued by the symbols that define our lives as a people.”

“The Protagonist” runs until the second week of December. National Gallery, 122 Third Street, Mutare.

25/11/2024

We love the new stores that have opened at Chisi Walk - the regeneration of the estate is a real bonus for the community.

One of favourites is Co.Create Studio which has a beautiful selection of home furnishings, including gorgeous candles from the Loncrae X Burnt Earth collection, colourful basketware from Mozambique and unique woven cushions.

15 Shortheath Road, Chisipite, Harare.

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24/11/2024

As the eminent philosopher Vanilla Ice once said, “Stop. Collaborate and listen,”
and this pearl of wisdom forms the backbone of the latest issue of Design//Life magazine.

We’re all about celebrating collaboration and we love to see Zimbabweans working together to make a difference. There’s no better example of this than the launch of Bridgenorth Music, a brand-new indie label and its exceptional recording studio that’s just opened in Harare.

Set to shine a light on the sounds of Southern Africa, in particular Zimbabwe, Bridgenorth has just signed guitar legend Sylent Nqo. We can’t wait to hear what’s coming next.

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23/11/2024

Fantastic headlines coming out ahead of this year’s , starting on 4 December. It’s wonderful to see the African art scene getting the recognition it so deserves. This continent is overflowing with talent - especially Zimbabwe! Watch this space…

23/11/2024

T R E E S C O M P A N Y This Christmas why not sack off the traditional fir tree and adopt some indigenous trees to help restore and protect Zimbabwe’s wonderful wilderness?

Throughout December Zimbabwean organisation My Trees will be planting 600,000 new trees: 580,000 have been bought but 20,000 little saplings need your sponsorship. For just USD10 you can get four trees for yourself; then why not buy a forest for a friend for Christmas? That would be an excellent present.

My Trees is such a great organisation - it’s now the largest community-based indigenous tree-planting initiative in Southern Africa. It has already planted a million trees across Zimbabwe, bringing life back to thousands of hectares of wilderness while providing jobs and environmental education for rural communities, as well as vital anti-poaching initiatives.

Follow the link in the bio to adopt a sapling, and head to to learn more about the extraordinary work that MyTrees is doing in Zimbabwe.

20/11/2024

Design//Life magazine’s beloved in-house photographer is none other than the super-talented Simon de Swardt. He’s also head honcho at Headshots, the most professional portrait photography studio in town, based in Highlands.

This holiday season Headshots is offering a family photo shoot for USD100, which includes 20 high-quality A5 Christmas cards, as well as 10 digital downloads of your family snaps. There’s nothing better than a family photo Christmas card just so you can pull it out in years to come and laugh at the silly clothes you made your children wear and how youthful you once looked. Book your session now!

23 Kew Drive, Highlands. 0779 170 768.

20/11/2024

We’re a big fan of mental health champion and bestselling author Brianna Wiest. She’s particularly good on how to look after yourself properly: “True self-care is not salt baths and chocolate cake,” she says, “it is making the choice to build a life you don’t need to regularly escape from.”

By this she means that long soaks in the tub and guilt-free gateau guzzling should be the accompaniment, rather than the answer, to how to lead a happier life.

So once you’ve got your life s**t sorted, can we suggest taking a bath with these Bekah Epsom Salts, the latest launch by , whose gorgeous, natural products feature in Issue 2 of Design//Life magazine. Choose from either lavender or geranium aromas and submerge yourself ASAP. Preferably with a slice of cake too.

Available at .within .space

05/11/2024

On show at “Contrast”, DPA.Art’s current exhibition at Dana B Savanna Camp, is the latest work by Kimberly T Gakanje. A graduate of the National Gallery’s School of Visual Art and Design, Kimberly focuses on non-representational paintings, and through her creative practice, celebrates her culture and identity while also addressing universal human experiences and perspectives.

“It is through this exploration that I discover a captivating alchemy between the tie and dye technique and a carefree, spontaneous approach to life,” says Kimberly. “By playing with paint and experimenting with textures, I aim to evoke a range of emotions and sensations within my work.”

Since completing her studies, Kimberly has participated in several group exhibitions showcasing emerging Zimbabwean artists, and is an artist in residence at Mbare Art Space.

1. Good Morning Fair Friends (2024). Canvas, fabric paint, spray paint, 110cm x 90cm. USD540
2. The Double (2024). Canvas, fabric paint, 133cm x 64cm. USD590
3. Untitled (2024). Canvas, fabric paint, 150cm x 73cm. USD350
4. Winter Camp (2024). Canvas, fabric paint, 85cm x 65cm. USD410

For more information, email: [email protected]

01/11/2024

We first met Nkosiyabo Frank last year at Mbare Art Space, where he’s currently a resident under the creative eye of celebrated Zimbabwean artist Moffat Takadiwa. Nkosiyabo and fellow artist William Joseph Kachinjika worked day and night to make customised totes for the Design//Life magazine launch party in December 2023.

Nkosiyabo’s huge, thought-provoking canvasses are currently on show at DPA Art’s exhibition, “Contrast”, running at the Dome at Dana B Savanna Camp; his work poses critical questions such as: “Tsika dzedudzechivanhu dzakayendepi?” (“Where have our traditions gone?”), prompting reflection on the balance between honouring ancestors and embracing progress.

Now Nkosiyabo is turning his attention to the fashion world with the launch of his new label Rebel Street Wear ZW with Sithabile Hlatshwayo, founder of Hooked Creations. Its customised clothing blends the old with the new, breathing new life into pre-worn pieces while celebrating “madhoiyiri”, Zimbabwe’s rich indigenous crotchet culture. The brand is already a hit – Zim superstar Delroy Shewe chose Rebel Street Wear denim for his performance at Freeman HKD’s album launch last weekend at Alex Park.

“We love how customised clothing allows for a unique sense of style,” says Nkosiyabo. “We want to create a new dawn in style by blending tradition with contemporary aesthetics.”

We’ll be watching, Nkosiyabo, can’t wait to see what you do next.
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01/11/2024

Happy Launch Day to one of our favourites, Flying Bantu, featured in the latest issue of Design//Life magazine, who release their album “Feja Feja” today.

Having weathered the Covid storm and come out flying, the band has been working tirelessly to make itself heard. Its exceptional performance at this year’s Sauti za Busara festival in Zanzibar was a just reward for their hard work and a brilliant showcase for their obvious talent.

“This album reflects the sentiments of loss that we all experienced during Covid,” frontman Nash tells Design//Life, “the feeling of missing someone and mourning the loss of the life that we led before. Loss is an emotion, and we need to celebrate all of our emotions, even the sadder ones,” he continues. “So even though there are darker themes to this album, there’s a real sense of joy to it too.”

You can experience a piece of this joy tonight, as Flying Bantu take to the stage at the River Brewing Co in Victoria Falls to celebrate their second album, lubricated by the River Brewing Co’s very own special Flying Bantu ale.

Congratulations, guys, have a great night!

30/10/2024

A R E Y O U R E A D Y ? Music, art, fashion and dancing – that sounds like our perfect weekend. Coming up, we’ve got the annual Jacaranda Art Show, an Afro vinyl session at Ela The Garden, “The Underground Gang” at Jasen Mpepho Little Theatre, not to mention Zimbabwe Fashion Week at ZICCA – and there’s much, much more. So, get out your diaries, gather your friends and enjoy an extremely fun weekend in Zimbabwe.
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29/10/2024

MURAL OF THE STORY White gallery walls are a great backdrop, sure, but it’s nice to have a little change once in a while; so it was such a delight to round the corner of What If The World gallery in Cape Town to see that its walls had been beautifully integrated with Hana Noor Mohammed’s artworks in her exhibition, “Rage Against The Dying Of The Light”. Would love to see more of this please.

29/10/2024

B R E A K I N G Zimbabwe Fashion Week has just announced a change of date and venue for this year’s event – it will take place THIS weekend, 31st October – 3 November, at the fabulous ZICCA space in the Old Greaterman’s Building in downtown Harare. “ZFW remains committed to delivering a vibrant showcase of fashion, creativity and culture, now set against the dynamic backdrop of Harare,” said ZFW Director Marshall Mutsamwira.

To get your tickets for the runways shows, workshops, panel discussions and fabulous parties, visit: www.zimbabwefashionweek.com
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28/10/2024

E V A N S A B O V E is proud to be showing two fabulous artworks by at DPA @ The Dome gallery near Harare.

It’s great to see that is also part of the “Kuvhunura: The Harare School” exhibition currently running in France - a fabulous display of work from 22 of Zimbabwe’s best artists.

Pop along to for your chance to buy one of wonderful works.

1. The Gambler, mixed media collage, 146cm x 180cm, US$1,250
2. Hair Goddess, mixed media collage, 81cm x 107cm, US$610

28/10/2024

P I C T U R E T H I S Wonderful to see artworks by on display at the “Kuvhunura: The Harare School” exhibition currently running in France. was lucky enough to get the scoop on the fantastic book “Zimbabwe - Art, Symbol And Meaning”, which produced with his mother Gill Atherstone, curator of traditional and contemporary art at the National Gallery of Zimbabwe from 1979-1988. It’s a fascinating read. Find out more in Issue 2 of Design//Life magazine, on sale now.

26/10/2024

R E A D A L L A B O U T I T proudly representing at this year’s Fabrik Party Convention - our latest issue is available to buy at the Fabrik pop-up along with the finest pieces from

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We’re all about seeing artists collab and new events that shake things up! Bam Bam Madame recently dropped their first event, ‘Bam Bam In The Chapel,’ featuring the killer live percussionist Wowrae. The Duo bring an extraordinary sense of belonging through their music sets. Their fresh, playful energy lights up the scene with a unique mix of organic, ethnic sounds, crafted with heart and thoughtfulness. Every set is designed for connection. The Chapel was packed and buzzing with a beautifully diverse crowd of all ages, cultures, genders, and ethnicities. Bam Bam & Wowrae took us on an epic journey of ethnic house and powerful Afro House beats that had everyone busting a move. Word on the street is that Bam Bam are brewing more events. Stay tuned.

Design//Life is PACKED with amazing articles, intriguing stories, and bespoke Zimbabwean talent! If you feel like you are missing out, visit us online at: www.designlifemagazine.com and grab your copy of Design//Life Magazine today⚡

We are thrilled to feature the incredible artist Mukudzei Muzondo in our latest issue of Design//Life Magazine. Mukudzei recently captivated us with his stunning art exhibition in collaboration with Design//Life Magazine, and now you can dive deeper into his artistic journey in our latest issue: “I’m trying to express reality with a strong voice but in a quiet, calm way.” - @mukudzei_muzondo Read more about the thought behind Mukudzei's art and much more in our latest issue, now available at these selected retail outlets: The Bloom Room Feliciano & Co The Salon The Showroom (Borrowdale Branch) Upmarket on Maasdorp Oak Tree Restaurant Alfresco Food Lover's Market Greendale KUMBA Home & Gifts Lon Crae Home (Old Stables Market) Thomson’s Stationery House of Books (Harare International Airport) 56 Kingsmead Katikitiki Space

The moment we've all been waiting for - ISSUE 2 of Design//Life magazine is here and we cannot wait for you to see it! You can find us at: www.designlifemagzine.com or from any of these selected retail outlets: (Harare) Alfresco Feliciano & Co The Salon The Showroom Upmarket on Maasdorp 56 Kingsmead Oak Tree Restaurant

There are no words to describe the joy and happiness of Miombo Magic 2024 - a beautiful music festival that’s become a much-loved institution in Zimbabwe. For three days we danced, we laughed, we listened and we appreciated the immense talent of musicians from around Africa. We’re counting down the days until Miombo 2025… Thank you to all these amazing artists: @mazulamusic @vaughnahrens @djembemonks @gemmamusic_ @sulumanichimbetu @mannexmotsi @rhythmanddust @adifowlerdrums @adyndust @cjberghmusic @rorisangincaps @bambammadame_music @mimi_bouvierr @hopemasike @nicola.bentley_seager @tendex_official_jb @amaqaqamzk @mwendamberi_3 @vera_zw @carriemreid @mannfridaymusic @thetravellersband @flyingbantu @exfx.exfx @kylablac_ @guyzyc @fab.ovation @sokindlymusic @mokoomba @africanplanthunter @amanda.lebreton.5

"Skug Barn was buzzing for Independence! The energy was contagious – the crowd was phenomenal, dancing and feeding off each other's excitement. It was pure bliss to witness everyone letting go and celebrating as one. Afro Tribal music is our lifeblood. It's raw, powerful, and unites people on a deep, instinctive level. There's nothing like the feeling of getting swept away by the rhythm with a group of amazing humans – it's pure magic. Performing is an honor and priviledge. An opportunity to strengthen bonds and make new friends. Seeing people connect with the music, feel the energy, and move freely – that's what truly matters to us. It's a beautiful exchange of energy that fills us with immense joy." - Manni, Djembe Monks

We love receiving your thoughts on our latest issue of Design//Life magazine. A special thank you goes out to @linbarrie for sharing her take on our magazine and what it is doing for Zimbabwe. She has been an incredible support and fan since our launch in December 2023! If you have not had a chance to get your hands on our first issue, Design//Life magazine is available online at: www.designlifemagazine.com.

We had an amazing time celebrating Independence Day last week at @skugbarn with the @djembemonks and @callmehalu. Thank you to all of you who came out to enjoy good music, dance, sing and have a great time together. The Djembe Monks and Halu brought the vibrant music and you brought the spirit - in true Zimbabwean style!

How did Design//Life Magazine come about? @millymcphie, our Editor and Founder, shares the journey of how her interactions with Zimbabwean talent fuelled her passion to curate a space for its celebration. The outcome? The exquisite magazine you hold in your hands today! We also owe a huge thank you to @prudiemas and her astounding artwork for inspiring and triggering the genesis of Design//Life! Grab your copy online at www.designlifemagazine.com or visit any of the following retail outlets: (Harare) The Fridge Kitchen National Gallery of Zimbabwe Afrotopia Cafe 56 Kingsmead Feliciano & Co The Salon The Bloom Room KUMBA Home & Gifts Oak Tree Restaurant Lon Crae Home The Skotch Kart co. Upmarket on Maasdorp (Bulawayo) The Orange Elephant Bulawayo Indaba Book Cafe #designlifeafrica #designlifemagazine #magazineeditor

We’re very proud to see Design//Life Magazine on the shelves of some of our favourite spots in Harare & Bulawayo 🎉 Pop in and grab yourself a copy! (Harare) The Bloom Room The Fridge Kitchen National Gallery of Zimbabwe Afrotopia Cafe KUMBA Home & Gifts Lon Crae Home 56 Kingsmead Oak Tree Restaurant Feliciano & Co The Salon The Skotch Kart co. Katikitiki Space Upmarket on Maasdorp (Bulawayo) Indaba Book Cafe The Orange Elephant Bulawayo #newmagazine #retailoutlets #fashion #style #design #talent #media #showcasing #zimbabwe #designlife #designlifemagazine

Design//Life is PACKED with amazing articles, intriguing stories, and bespoke Zimbabwean talent! If you feel like you are missing out, visit us ONLINE at www.designlifemagazine.com and grab your copy of Design//Life Magazine⚡️ #designlifemagazine #designlifeafrica

“The talent in Zimbabwe is just staggering,” says Milly McPhie , Editor of Design//Life magazine, formerly of British GQ, and Editor of GQ.com and GQStyle.com. “Not enough people know about what’s going on creatively in this country, so I decided to set up a magazine to get the word out there,” she says. “This is the most exciting project I’ve ever worked on. It’s not a job, this is my passion. I can’t wait for everyone to see the magazine and all the amazing things going on in Zim.” - words from the Editor & Founder Interview with Charlotte Ashton & Obscura Media (Instagram: @obscurmediastudio) #designlifemagazine #magazineeditor #magazine

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