The exhibition celebrates the dynamism and innovation of contemporary African designers, whose influence is now firmly established on the global stage, from Lagos to Johannesburg and across the world’s major fashion capitals. First major exhibition to explore this historical turning point, Africa Fashion delves into the influences, motivations and craftsmanship of the designers at the heart of this movement. A travelling exhibition, this edition at the Quai Branly is enriched by a new section bringing together textiles from the museum’s collections and contemporary creations, alongside photographic archives.

The pared-back scenography conveys a sensitive narrative through the choice of materials and colours. Materials become carriers of stories, much like the fabrics and craft traditions highlighted in the works on display. Wood stained in blue serves as a direct reference to the cultural and political heritage embodied by indigo. Raw wood, meanwhile, accompanies the work of pioneering figures and enters into dialogue with natural materials such as raffia.

Contemporary pieces are presented on metallic plinths set on recycled textile bases, whose materiality draws attention to the environmental issues surrounding the mass circulation of textile waste to several African countries.

The historical section immerses visitors in a more enveloping atmosphere, where textiles from the museum’s collections cover the walls in a profusion of materials and patterns.

Roll co-designed the Amazônia and Africa Fashion exhibitions with an eco-responsible approach embedded from the outset: 75% of the scenographic elements were reused from one exhibition to the next, while display cases, glass panels and modular hanging systems came from the museum’s inventory or were designed for reuse.