Design Spotlight: Black Artists and Product Designers You Need to Meet

Celebrating Black Artists in Interior Design: A Journey of Inspiration

When I started this blog, my goal was to share ideas that go beyond just fluffy, glossy lifestyle content. This intention inspired this post and continues to influence the topics I cover.

Photo courtesy of Yael & Valerie

In honor of Black History Month, I'm revisiting a blog post I wrote during a pivotal moment in our country’s history. The summer of 2020 saw nationwide protests following George Floyd's tragic murder. These events ignited conversations and opened our eyes across the U.S. In the design community, we finally recognized, albeit shamefully, that our colleagues of color were grossly underrepresented.

Expanding My Understanding

I wanted to deepen my understanding and highlight the incredible work being done by Black artists. What I discovered was truly inspiring. I realized that I had already been captivated by their work; I just didn’t know it at the time.

I've updated the curated list of shops, designers, and products I shared nearly six years ago. This list is by no means exhaustive! Below, you'll find 11 amazing designers. Please reach out if you have recommendations for artists or makers I should consider adding.

Photo courtesy of Mann Handmade

Mann Handmade — Ceramics

When I stumbled upon Mann Handmade’s website, I realized I had purchased Sharon’s pieces before! She’s an L.A. local, and her organic, earthy collections are crafted right here in Los Angeles using locally-sourced materials.

I’m drawn to the handmade nature of her work—no two pieces are exactly the same! Each collection is inspired by specific ingredients or dishes, such as steel-cut oats, hot chilis, or pancakes. To score your own, reach out via her website for a dinnerware collection tailor-made for you. Alternatively, you can find her pieces at local retailers, including my personal favorite, Lawson-Fenning.

Cayenne Chair & Ottoman Photo courtesy of Marie Burgos, Francis Augustin

MB Collection

As a huge francophile, I’m thrilled to highlight a Parisian-born designer on this list. Marie Burgos is an interior and product designer based in NYC. She’s also a feng shui certified master, which I find fascinating.

Marie’s pieces possess a compelling duality. Her Cayenne Lounge Chair features a stocky, masculine frame adorned with plush upholstery, balanced by sleek, feminine lacquered arms. Paired with the matching ottoman, this midcentury throwback is perfect for the corner of your living room, where you can settle in with your favorite glass of red wine and a must-read novel.

Igbaka Scone Photos courtesy of Studio Lani

Studio Lani — Furniture & Lighting

Travel plans thwarted this year? Studio Lani brings tropical elegance right to your home. Designer Ladi Adeoye translates dynamic sculpture into functional works of art, collaborating with Nigerian artisans to bring her designs to life.

I’m particularly drawn to Lani’s Igbako wall sconce. It features a hidden light source enclosed in solid wood, emitting warm, intimate light while highlighting the hand-carved texture within.

Abstract Coils Photo courtesy of Lisa Hunt

Lisa Hunt — Fine Art

If there’s one art period I can’t get enough of, it’s Art Deco. Lisa Hunt’s work pays homage to this period, both in shape and palette.

Her work features high contrast, juxtaposing stark black or white backgrounds with 24K gold leaf geometric shapes and patterns. The pieces are simultaneously minimalist and glam, making them warm, bold, and wonderfully versatile.

Photo courtesy of The Ninevites

The Ninevites — Art Textiles

Gorgeous design meets an incredible mission with The Ninevites. This design collective focuses on showcasing traditional weaving methods while empowering local artisans in South Africa and Peru.

Their bold, geometric rugs are made to order in under three months—an impressive turnaround for custom floor coverings. I can easily envision these colorful designs in a kid’s room, pool house, or even as a striking wall hanging above a bed.

94/100 Day Project Photos courtesy of Lolly Lolly

Lolly Lolly — Ceramics

The playful name of this shop immediately drew me in, and I became completely enamored with artist Lalese Stamps when I discovered she lives and creates in Columbus, OH. Being from Nebraska myself, I understand that inspiration can be found anywhere, and I have a soft spot for fellow creatives outside of major design hubs.

On their website, Lolly Lolly features a 100 Day Project—100 iterations of a similar form, each with a unique twist. I’m in love with the whimsical shapes and rich black clay; I want to buy every single one!

Ashanti I Stool Photo courtesy of Jomo

Jomo — Furniture

This is the website that inspired this entire blog post. I knew I had to highlight craftmasters. Jomo Tariku’s work is absolutely stunning. Each piece is lovingly handcrafted, drawing inspiration from African culture, nature, or history.

For example, the Nyala chair is inspired by the mountain Nyala antelope. The Ashanti I stool mimics the bowed legs and curved seat of a traditional Ghanaian ceremonial seat. Any piece from Jomo’s collection would be a conversation starter and an heirloom-quality work of art.

The Concentric Collection Photos courtesy of Studio PGRB

Studio PGRB — Lighting

Here’s another shop I didn’t realize I had purchased from in the past. I actually have Studio PGRB’s Concentric 9 pendant in my home! It has a fabulous 70’s glam vibe that I adore, and the warm light perfectly highlights my salon-style gallery walls on the staircase.

I’m also in love with the Saber sconce. It’s super stylish and versatile. Studio PGRB’s lighting is perfect for a variety of homes, and I can easily envision it in hospitality and commercial spaces as well.

Past & Connection Photo courtesy of Yael & Valerie

Yaël & Valérie — Textiles & Wallpaper

Yaël & Valérie is a newer company from Haiti that I’m completely obsessed with. They reimagine familiar textile patterns in innovative ways, bringing history and culture to the forefront of their designs.

Their Passé et Connexion collection transforms traditional toile into a dynamic exploration of Black history and womanhood. Not to mention, it’s simply gorgeous. I want to upholster a chair in this fabric, stat.

Photo courtesy of Malene Barnett

Malene Barnett — Ceramics, Painting, & Rugs

Malene Barnett is a Brooklyn-based artist and a founding member of the Black Artists and Designers Guild. Her work is deeply rooted in her ancestral heritage, paying homage to traditional makers and African craftmasters.

Her Adire collection features hand-built sculptures inspired by the Gele, a traditional Nigerian headwrap. I am so drawn to this entire collection—the movement, the texture, the free-flowing forms. I can easily see these pieces anchoring a bookcase, nestled among beloved books and photographs.

Sheila Bridges — Wallpaper, Scarves, and Interiors

Sheila Bridges is a Harlem-based creative director and interior designer known for her classic yet versatile design aesthetic and critical eye. Her interiors are often colorful and multi-layered, informed by architecture and historical references.

Her Harlem Toile de Jouy hand-screened wallpaper was born out of necessity. After years of searching for a toile for her own home that didn’t exist, she decided to create her own.

Feeling Inspired? I Know I Am.

There are so many incredible Black interior designers, artists, and product designers producing remarkable work. I hope this list introduces you to new faces and collections. Please visit their websites, subscribe to their email lists, and support them by buying and promoting their work.

Until next time,

XO,

PE

P.S. The Black Artists and Designers Guild led me to many of these incredible designers. BADG is a nonprofit founded in 2018 to increase the visibility of Black art, culture, and talent within the design industry. Check out their directory to discover even more makers!