Anne Trudy Addoh Oi
MA Fashion
I am a fashion designer, focusing on garment construction by exploring structural and sculptural shapes around the body. My designs are based on my culture. I belong to a tribe called “Akan” found in two different countries, Ivory Coast, and Ghana where I was raised. The Akan people uses symbols known as “Adinkra” often found on various traditional fabric print. They are symbols with distinct meanings often linked with proverbs, conveying traditional wisdom in all aspects of life.
My concept ‘Heritage Alive’, is a way for me to communicate tradition in a modern language, by bringing alive the historical symbols through my pattern cutting techniques. I chose to develop two symbols which best represent me. The ‘Nsaa’ symbol of excellence, genuineness, and authenticity forming squares shape represent quality of workmanship. And ‘Dwennimmen’ symbol of strength and humility, forming spiral shapes, represents humility even though you are strong.
My passion for geometric and organic shapes, led me to transform casual outfits into oversized 3D shapes, using the Adinkra symbols as a source of inspiration. My creations were designed to look and be very comfortable making the wearer able to move with ease while maintaining the structure. African print is also a very important aspect of the Akan ceremonial attire, therefore I needed to incorporate it within my designs. I started making fabric patches using scraps and deadstock materials. It has helped me develop my own print and was my way of making pattern without waste.
