Founded about ten years ago, Ajini, an Orlando-based designer, is preparing to branch out with its first brick-and-mortar shop. Opening at 1221 N Orange Avenue, Ajini will carry apparel and other merchandise both from its own line and from others’.
“We work with artisans and artists who use African traditional methods to make contemporary art and clothing,” owner Folake Fabunmi-Vining told What Now this week. “Our mission is to bridge the gap between design lovers around the world with African design.”
Fabunmi-Vining sees the project as in conversation with a global community, one that draws from African and African-diasporic sources, following the threads that bring them together.
“I’m Nigerian, and I’ve lived in the U.S. for 30 years, and I’m seeing a growing demand for African culture, including the interplay with the diaspora: Afro-Cubans, Afro-Brazilians, Africans living in the U.S. There is a common thread in our fashion, music, and art, and I wanted to create something that would continue to showcase that. A space where you can experience that conversation.”
The Ajini project has three components, Fabunmi-Vinings said. First, of course, is the retail space. Second, there are curated events that Ajini will host and/or travel to participate in across the country celebrating contemporary African design and techniques.
And third, “We’re working on an app that African designers can join so people have a way to find more of their products in one place. We ease the friction between the designers and the buyers, help with shipping and customs, and so on.”
Ajini is expecting a soft opening in late summer, with a grand opening to be celebrated this fall. Stay tuned for the announcement of an opening date.
You can keep up with Ajini by following the brand on Facebook.
