Artists 2024 - Give her a crown

2024
SHIFTING PERSPECTIVES

2024 / SHIFTING PERSPECTIVES

Change begins when perspectives shift. This theme urges a rethink of preconceptions, to challenge societal norms and how we perceive the role of women in society. Art has the unparalleled power to change viewpoints, to nudge the observer into new realms of thought and to act as a catalyst to redefine boundaries, break stereotypes and inspire. Rewriting the defined role of a women, so that all women are celebrated and empowered. Change begins when perspectives lift, as society’s conscience undergoes a shift.

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GUGU PETENI

FASHION DESIGNER

COLLECTION: DO NOT TUMBLE DRY AW25

My inspiration for the GHAC collection stems from a line in this poem that emphasises the power and influence women possess, despite often being hidden. When I received the call to be part of this program, I was truly honoured to join a platform that celebrates, affirms, and shares stories to empower women. As a Black female in the fashion business, I constantly face challenges and individuals who aim to diminish my value. Overtime, I have realised that I allowed myself to be undermined because society never created a space for us to speak. I often refrained from asserting myself in situations where I was disrespected because I didn’t want to be perceived as “difficult,” “angry,” or “loud.” It’s no secret that while men are respected for being firm and assertive, women are often deemed “rude”, ”unladylike,” or even “bitter.” My collection aims to inspire women and all female presenting people to reclaim their voice, to unshrink themselves, and to stand tall and powerful against anyone who seeks to dim their light.

Do not tumble dry AW25 is a genderless collection that explores the concepts of shrinking and oversizing to demonstrate that women can take up space and exist in power.

GIVE HER A CROWN STATEMENT

I think there are no words to really explain how I feel about being part of Give Her A Crown this year. When I got the call, I think it’s still so surreal. It hasn’t sunk in, really. I was so excited! It’s such an honour to be part of a platform that gives voices to women, that tells our stories, that celebrates us and just really affirms and asserts us in a space. So I am super excited to be part of this journey and the platform to share my story and also just to learn from other women that are part of this journey. To grow together, learn together and inspire each other.

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KENEILWE MOTHOA

INTERIOR / FASHION DESIGNER

COLLECTION: LEETO LA KA (MY JOURNEY)

This collection is a celebration of change and adaptability, seeking to explore how shifting perspectives can influence and transform our understanding of the world and ourselves. This collection is about a journey of rich cultural heritage and homage to the Pedi and Ndebele tribes found in Kwandebele, Mpumalanga. A look into generations who have passed down their artistry and dynamic perspectives. This is my journey of exploration a shift in how I perceive things, a nod to these tribes that are known for intricate details, voluminous silhouettes, pleating and beading. Merging and marrying the past, present and what’s to come, creating a harmonious blend of structure and fluidity; drawing inspiration from the idea that our understanding of reality is not fixed but it is ever changing. The colour palette is deeply rooted in tradition incorporating rich reds that signify vitality, strength and passion, earthy browns and creams that provide a grounding and natural element that reminds me of home.

I want to emphasize a harmonious balance between boldness and subtlety, to capture the dynamic spirit of shifting perspectives.

GIVE HER A CROWN STATEMENT

I am absolutely thrilled to be joining Give Her A Crown this year. I saw all the beautiful things that the people have done in previous years, and it’s such a beautiful thing to be a part of. It’s empowering. It’s all things good. And I think it’s such a beautiful opportunity for me personally and for the other people to come. I am looking forward to working with amazing people, creating and pouring myself fully into this collection and showcase my story and tell it the best way I can. Narrate it in a way that it can touch someone else and empower them to get up and go and do whatever it is that they feel they couldn’t do before.

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MANTHE RIBANE LIEBMANN

CREATIVE DIRECTOR / ARTIST / DESIGNER

COLLECTION: M. AURA

A women who retains an aura of mystery, power and flow. Taking inspiration from Kawakubo as her design philosophy was nothing short of revolutionary, questioning the very essence of fashion and beauty. Her designs challenged traditional norms, experimenting with art, oversized silhouettes and deconstructed forms. Imagine a world where fashion goes beyond aesthetics and functionality, evolving into a movement, technology and innovation. Welcome to the fascinating universe f wearable art, merging fashion, technology and movement in wearable sculptures. What does it mean to dress with dignity today? In our modern context, dressing with dignity can be seen as a powerful statement of self-respect and confidence. It’s about choosing outfits that make you feel empowered and respectful, without compromising your values and strengths. Wearable clothing art is also important because it challenges the traditional notion of fashion.

Wearable art clothing allows individuals to showcase their individuality, creativity and personal style in a way that traditional clothing cannot.

GIVE HER A CROWN STATEMENT

I feel truly honoured. I feel that the push and the perseverance that I’ve carried through my career, along with the challenges were all worth it and to be to be part of such a prestigious selection of the most impactful women that I truly look up to also. This is such a truly incredible initiative to create platforms that celebrate and honour women, that pave a way for a new narrative to be born.

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QUI QARRE

SPOKEN WORD ARTIST

BIOGRAPHY

Qui Qarre is a Kenyan-born spoken word artist who utilises her craft to advocate for various social causes. Her work primarily focuses on themes of social concern, and she is particularly interested in leadership and mentorship. Her poems have enabled her to embark on artistic tours.

GIVE HER A CROWN STATEMENT

I am excited to join the campaign this year. I am a champion for female empowerment, firstly as an activist, and secondly as a mentor to young girls un a juvenile centre in Kenya. So aligning with Give Her A Crown this year was a challenge I couldn’t refuse. Art speaks to the mind and moves the heart.

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THANDO NTULI

FASHION DESIGNER

COLLECTION: IPHUPHU (A DREAM)

Growing up in Soweto, I was inspired by the 70s and 80s fashion from my mother and grandmother’s closets, which I used to secretly borrow from. This collection is a vibrant, nostalgic tribute to those memories. It captures the wonder of a child’s perspective, featuring a kaleidoscope of colours drawn from beloved buildings, flowers, and objects. “Iphupho” celebrates the playful and whimsical essence of childhood, blending retro influences with the vivid imagination I had as a little girl in Soweto. As poet Qui Qarre beautifully states in the opening lines of her poem, “This poem is a mirror, one into which we look and see a familiar face.” This sentiment resonates deeply with “Iphupho,” as the collection mirrors the younger version of myself, challenging perspectives and societal barriers. In childhood, everything feels possible, and “Iphupho” encapsulates that boundless sense of potential and creativity.

The upcoming collection, titled “Iphupho” delves into the imaginative world of my childhood.

GIVE HER A CROWN STATEMENT

I think for me, it’s one of those opportunities that kind of hit you in the face, but it’s really kind of exciting. And the best part of it is I feel so aligned to it. My life story has always been about the women around me and how they’ve influenced me and given me the space to be who I am today, to guide me. I always try and remember them in the sense of my work and my art. So I think aligning myself with this campaign just makes sense. And I don’t know how to explain it better than it just being a perfect fit. I think for me, it’s one of those opportunities that I wouldn’t pass up because it honestly speaks to who I am and what my brand stands for.

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TSAKANI MASHABA

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

COLLECTION: RESONANCE

This poem is continuous as we build a foundation on which our dreams become reality, securing ground on which future generations continue to build!” This line encapsulates the collection’s ethos, celebrating the strength and resilience of women who nurture both land and dreams. “Resonance” redefines how we view women’s roles in both history and the present. By blending traditional elements with contemporary design, the collection shifts perspectives on cultural heritage, emphasising the modern woman’s connection to her roots and her role in shaping the future. Drawing inspiration from my grandmother, who embodied strength and grace, “Resonance” symbolises the enduring connection between generations. Each piece reflects the wisdom of the land and the timeless strength of women, providing a foundation for dreams to flourish and future generations to build upon. The collection captures the harmony between heritage and modernity, offering a tribute to the resilience and empowerment of women. By merging traditional aesthetics with innovative design, “Resonance” showcases the evolution of women’s roles, celebrating their lasting impact on society and culture.

By merging traditional aesthetics with innovative design, “Resonance” showcases the evolution of women’s roles, celebrating their lasting impact on society and culture.

GIVE HER A CROWN STATEMENT

I’m very excited and honoured to join this year’s cohort for the Give Her A Crown Collection. This platform’s mission to empower women with storytelling is something that is very close to me. It resonates with me deeply, because it aligns with my abilities to honour my womanhood and express my dynamic creativity through making.

DONATE TO THE CROWN FUND

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