Kings & Queens land in Aotearoa
Auckland, New Zealand - June, 26 2014 - A collaboration between three young creatives has combined fashion and art into an exciting history lesson. Auckland
based Bianca Paulus, Makanaka Tuwe and Tarisai Tomu, have honed their different talents to create a collection named
‘Kings and Queens’.
The ‘Kings & Queens’ collection brings to life a 16-piece collection inspired by the Kings and Queens of Africa in unique styles for
men and women. The t-shirts are a modern twist of 2 Kings and 2 Queens all featuring the images from Bianca’s artwork.
Artist Bianca says the tees are an artistic exaggeration of the Kings and Queens.
“Of course the Kings and Queens do not look the way I painted them. From an artistic perspective I was wanting to
capture their spirit and the different qualities and strengths they represent. It is also a twist on modern day Kings
and Queens, something we can relate to, something we are”.
The trio teamed up to raise awareness, promote of African history and offer a different perspective on the continent’s
past. The line of the t-shirts is reflective of the brand’s belief that fashion can be used as an avenue to promote the
visibility and knowledge of the African culture.
Graphic Designer Tee Tomu Founder of KrafTee Designs says the connection between fashion and art as a form of history is
undeniable.
“Sometimes the easiest way to convey a message and tell a story is through a medium that everyone understands. We have
used fashion to showcase our history and ancestry”.
The unique partnership between the trio also offers an opportunity to giveback by raising funds for the 2014 Africa on
My Sleeve project. Ten dollars from each sale will be dedicated to the Africa on My Sleeve 2014 project.
Africa on My Sleeve Founder Makanaka Tuwe says the premise and message behind the release of the collection is very
important.
“The tees are part of the fundraising initiative for Africa on My Sleeve, a social enterprise initiative that supports
the professional growth of designers inspired by Africa to promote economic empowerment by going beyond showcasing,”
Makanaka says.
By releasing the tee collection the organisation aims to accomplish their goal of telling Africa’s untold story by
serving the organisation’s dual values of collaboration and quality.
The tees are all white and available in a range of styles ranging from $30-$60. The collection is now available at www.shopafricaonmysleeve.bigcartel.com.
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