A guest of the Fédération de la Haute Couture et de la Mode and recipient of the Chevalier de l’Ordre des Arts et des Lettres, Cameroonian designer Imane Ayissi creates garments that aesthetically blend African craftmanship and hallmarks of the French sensibility. Frequently incorporating exquisite Lyon silk as well as natural and upcycled materials, his meticulous designs are sumptuous constructions that emphasize corporeal movement, stemming from his background as a dancer and model. Dedicated to amplifying the culturally rich textile and sartorial heritage of Africa on the international stage, Ayissi reexamines and challenges the Western-oriented world of haute couture. With an emphasis on traditional elements from across the continent, his couture pieces prominently feature raffia, Obom bark cloth, Faso Dan Fani stripes, and Kente cloth. Journeying through more than 40 signature looks, the designer’s debut solo exhibition Imane Ayissi: From Africa to the World embodies his singular energy, contextualizing his role within Africa’s larger contributions to fashion while expanding understandings of global luxury. 

Imane Ayissi: From Africa to the World is curated by Rafael Gomes, creative director of SCAD FASH museums. 

About the designer
Imane Ayissi was born in Cameroon to a family of artists and sportsmen. His father was a champion boxer, his mother was Miss Cameroon 1960, and his brothers and sisters are dancers and singers. As a member of the Cameroon National Ballet, he toured internationally while also working as a model for brands including Cardin, Dior, Lanvin, Givenchy, Yves Saint Laurent, and Valentino, as well as appearing in various editorials and campaigns with renowned photographers. Ayissi became interested in fashion at a young age, making garments for his mother and later for one of the largest ateliers in Cameroon. Relocating to Paris, he began designing small collections and made-to-measure pieces for private clients. In 2010, Ayissi debuted at Paris Haute Couture Fashion Week. In 2020, he became the first sub-Saharan designer to be invited to show on the official Haute Couture calendar in Paris as a guest member of the Fédération de la Haute Couture et de la Mode. Ayissi focuses on ethical and sustainable production with a deep respect for traditional craftwork, almost exclusively using natural and organic materials. He supports various skills-training projects fostering economic growth in Cameroon and throughout Africa.

Image credit: Courtesy of the artist