For centuries, aso-oke fabric has formed the core of Yoruba ceremonial life. And for decades, Minku founder Kunmi stared at the array of beautifully-folded aso-oke fabric in her mother’s closet, wondering if it could have a use beyond head and waist wear at weddings and graduations.
It took her own graduations — with a Masters in human-computer interaction from Virginia Tech, then an art diploma in Barcelona — for it to all come together: she would use these durable hand-woven cotton and silk fabrics to line the interiors of leather bags she would start making.
Two years after, Minku continues to define a fresh sub-Saharan aesthetic through its subtle use of cultural elements and artisan approach to contemporary bagmaking.
Creating each bag by hand in her atelier, Kunmi works by her own rules, expanding the initial aso-oke concept to include discoveries like the Eleko Wave™, a seawave-like leather effect developed in her atelier in 2012.
Since its inception in 2011, Minku has provided leather bags, luggage and gadget cases to clients from over 15 countries across five continents. While Minku items can be seen and purchased in the online store or at the Nike Art Gallery in Lagos, clients are also encouraged to book an appointment for atelier visits and customizations.
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minku@minkudesign.com | contact form | blog | facebook | twitter | email subscription
fine leather goods since 2011
atelier location: barcelona
customization available? yes
worldwide shipping? yes
press: please see here
where to buy: Nike Art Gallery, Lekki, Lagos | Minku online store
shows: 080 Barcelona Fashion Week AW 2013 Showroom (Feb 2013) | Lagos Accessories Fair (June 2012) | Colours and Creativity Lagos (May 2012) | Changing Room Barcelona (Dec 2011)
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Company Information
Registered in Nigeria as Minku Leather Goods Nigeria Limited
Company Registration Number: RC 999360
