The Print Creator: Banke Kuku

Ever wondered who the creative minds behind innovative prints and new textiles are? Printed and woven Textile designer Banke Kuku has worked with the likes of Jewel by Lisa and Duro Olowu - both labels that have been recognized for their distinguished prints and fabrics.

APiF: Please introduce your business and your designs.

Banke Kuku: The Banke Kuku Textiles fuse aspects of African and Western culture to create beautiful and elegant fabrics and interior pieces. BK Textiles can be identified by its intricate patterns, vibrant and sophisticated use of color as it upholds its African heritage. 

APiF: Where do you find inspirations for your designs/prints?

Banke: I am inspired by everything around me - nature, people, architecture, emotions, and current affairs.

APiF: What signifies your prints from others?

Banke: Color!

APiF: What is your preferred printing technique?

Banke: I love silk screen printing, although I don't do much of it anymore. It is very time consuming and labor intensive and with the fast pace of the world a process that has become quite challenging.

APiF: Do you have a favorite print?

Banke: My favorite print at the moment is called the Pride Print - it is form my recent interior collection.The Pride Print draws its inspiration from the traditional European adopted Paisley print. The combination of the paisley influence and the bold African use of color make the print grand and harmonic.

APiF: Any tips for new designers/start-ups in the industry?

Banke: Keep true to your identity and don't give up.

APiF: What are your plans for 2012?

Banke: To keep growing!

Find out more:

w: http://www.bankekuku.com
t: https://twitter.com/#!/BankeKuku