Thebe Magugu, Aisha Ayensu and Other African Creatives Visit Moët & Chandon HQ in France in Honour of Champagne Day 2024
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- October 23, 2024
In celebration of Champagne Day 2024, Moët & Chandon invited seven prominent African creatives, including Thebe Magugu and Aisha Ayensu, to their headquarters in Épernay, France. Spanning fashion, design, music and photography, each of these talents represents a commitment to African craft and creativity. This visit was a fusion of African and French craftsmanship, offering these talents the opportunity to explore the heritage and meticulous artistry behind Moët & Chandon’s renowned champagne production.
The group also included Lagos-based designer Banke Kuku, Cameroonian musical artist Mahine Sef, Kenyan photographer Lyra Aoko, Tanzanian businessman Mtani Nyamakababi and Morocco-based jewellery designer Youssra Nichane, who found inspiration in the centuries-old traditions and innovative techniques they witnessed.
Thebe Magugu, award-winning South African designer, expressed admiration for how the brand has maintained its relevance since 1743. “It blows my mind that they have managed to preserve a brand since 1743, and for it to still be even more relevant in 2024 – that takes a level of constant preservation and education”, he stated.
Aisha Ayensu, creative director of Ghana’s Christie Brown, also highlighted how the visit influenced her approach to luxury design, combining traditional Ghanaian techniques with modern savoir-faire. “It’s about capturing that essence of sophistication while staying true to the stories behind each creation.”
Moreover, the creatives had the opportunity to learn from, network and inspire one another. As photographer Lyra Aoko aptly put it. “It was the perfect opportunity to live my best life, validate my art, and mingle with some of the best craftsmen and women.”
Through close encounters with the heritage and artisanship proudly on display, each talent walked away with renewed inspiration for the creative journey and found it shaped their perspectives on craftsmanship, luxury and craft in some way.
