Famed South African hat designer Crystal Birch.
Photo: Supplied
- South African creatives will join an artist residency programme fusing artistic expression from SA and Mexico.
- There will be a showcase held on 17 December 2024.
- The residency will feature talents like Kelvin Momo, Lukhanyo Mdingi, Crystal Birch and Imraan Christian.
Esteemed South African creatives are exploring every avenue at keeping their art alive.
Just see MaXhosa Africa’s Kulture Festival that showcases to the public their core values of sustainability.
Or labels like Imprint ZA, House of Fabrosanz, MaXhosa Africa and more protecting their creative property and joining the Alliance Against Counterfeit.
Mzansi will now get the opportunity to see more of our talented designers fuse South Africa’s artistic flair with that of Mexico.
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Tequila brand Don Julio partners with South African talent for the Don Julio Artist Residency – a programme rooted in Mexico and South Africa, culminating in an experiential showcase of their art on 17 December 2024.
The resident artists include Fool Me hitmaker Kelvin Momo, award-winning fashion designer Lukhanyo Mdingi, milliner Crystal Birch and visual artist Imraan Christian.
This residency celebrates creativity and culture, uniting artistic expressions from South Africa and Mexico, in collaboration with Mexican artists like Claudio Limón. Through fashion, art and music, the collaboration will take consumers on a journey that tells a South African and Mexican love story.
The residency allows the artists to engage in collaborative projects, workshops, and an exhibition showcasing their work.
Kelvin Momo, known for his innovative fusion of genres, will highlight the role of sound in artistic expression.
“Music, like tequila, is crafted with passion and intention. This collaboration allows us to connect with global audiences,” he says.
Musical artist Kelvin Momo.
Award-winning fashion designer Lukhanyo Mdingi.
Visual artist Imraan Christian.
Famed South African hat designer Crystal Birch.
Each artist brings a unique perspective, blending their cultural backgrounds to create a shared vision of excellence. LVMH Prize winner Lukhanyo Mdingi draws from his Xhosa heritage to bring contemporary aesthetics to his designs.
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Lukhanyo says, “Craftsmanship is at the heart of what I do—whether it’s fashion or textiles. Together with Don Julio, we celebrate authentic storytelling.”
Mexican textile artist Victoria Villasana’s was part of Mdingi’s Mexican experience as part of the residency, as she merges traditional patterns with personal memories of Mexico’s vibrant celebrations.
Known for her bold designs, Crystal Birch is excited to merge Spanish and South African influences in her work.
“This collaboration allows me to draw inspiration from Mexico’s vibrancy and share unique designs with the world,” she shares.
Imraan Christian, a visual artist, uses his lens to explore social issues and identity. During his residency, he worked closely with Claudio Limón, a Jalisco-born artist known for his evocative use of colour.
Imraan reflects, “My time in Mexico was spiritual. This collaboration allows me to express the richness of my experience, connecting with the land and the community that helped build Don Julio.”
