Tradition REIMAGINED

As the eighth cycle of the Dior Lady Art project comes to life, Cameroonian-American artist Ludovic Nkoth delves into the process of reimagining the maison's signature accessory.

- MADELINE SAFAVI

Renamed with the late Princess of Wales in mind, Lady Dior is an emblematic piece from the French maison. The iconic handbag is a longstanding symbol of elegance and modernity and has been fashioned in a vast collection of materials and designs. Since 2016, creative director Maria Grazia Chiuri has helmed the Dior Lady Art Project, an initiative that cements Lady Dior's versatility and ongoing relationship with art. In its eighth cycle this year, the project invites 12 artists from across the globe to reimagine the accessory, transforming the bag into a piece of art that reflects their individual styles.

The 12 artists are Mircea Cantor, Jeffrey Gibson, Gilbert & George, Ha Chong-Hyun, Lee Kun-Yong, Mariko Mori, Ludovic Nkoth, Hilary Pecis, Mickalene Thomas, Zadie Xa, Michaela Yearwood-Dan and Xu Zhen. With each artist having free reign, the maison welcomes 12 new and energetic perspectives.

Aiming to showcase his heritage as well as his personal journey of being a Cameroonian immigrant, Nkoth's iteration of Lady Dior stands out as it challenges traditional notions of what the French luxury house is known for. From cowrie shells for the handles and a bespoke design printed on the interior, Nkoth's personal touch is one to wonder at. Using West African symbols and motifs, down to embellishments on the quilting, his creations challenge the traditional binaries often associated with luxury accessories.

Here, Nkoth delves into the process of reimagining Dior's signature accessory and celebrating art in all its forms.

Please describe your artistic universe in a few words.