Whilst researching a variety of sources for my think tank 'Liberty for Africa' project I came across this great film about Vivienne Westwood collaboration with Yoox.com and Ethical Fashion Africa (2011). They are creating employment for those living in poverty. Westwood states how providing employment for 7'000 women in Africa is not only providing income but even changing lives. Ethical Fashion Africa is creating a selection of bags using traditional techniques, recycled materials and doing so within fair working conditions.
Westwood said.
"This project gives people control over their lives - charity
doesn't give control, it does the opposite, it makes them dependent." (vogue.co.uk)
Take a peak at the film.
Photographer Juergen Teller joined Westwood on her trip. Here are some of the woderful images he captured.
I found this amazing piece on the Liberty of London Blog, their head archivist gives an insight into the Liberty classic designs which have been in production since the 1900's.
'Housing around 115 Liberty Classic designs, the archive is a celebration
of the history and culture of Liberty itself. As prints are added to
this inspirational Classics collection each season, the wealth of
tradition grows, and with it an expanded expression of our heritage.' (liberty.co.uk)
Whilst researching for my Think Tank/Journal project I came across a wonderful book ' African Wisdom 365 Days' by Danielle and Olivier Follmi. I found so many amazing, inspirational photographs that showed the wonderful Africa landscape. I particularly love this image above of the African women in tribal clothing, such vibrant colours and prints, it gives one a real insight into how the African culture differs from anywhere else in the world.
