Soul Food x Madiakham
Cultured (Black) Pearls by Madiakham:
The inspiration for this series comes from Botter, a Caribbean Couture clothing brand focused on sustainability and vibrantly representing rich Caribbean culture. More specifically, Madiakham was inspired by a colorful beaded headpiece from their Autumn Winter 2022 collection. The title, Cultured (Black) Pearls, is a play on words and a metaphor for Soul Food’s work and purpose.
“I really like the idea of working on pearls after working on velvet. The colors and materials were talking to me and made me think of braids and Senegal.” – Madiakham
According to the brand, the collection was “inspired by the power of an abundant style, that gives a voice to the voiceless, that does not hold back, that no matter what the circumstances may be, provides a means of expression through independent style.” – Botter
Soul Food is a nonprofit organization that works with young migrants and refugees, including unaccompanied minors, aged 14-22. Given the French colonial context, the majority are from French-speaking West African countries. All of Soul Food’s activities, including excursions, a professional development program and community events, are centered around creativity, art and culture, elements that feed the soul. Promoting positive integration through artistic and cultural activities is part of the organization’s mission because art can help people identify themselves to a culture, thereby helping them feel more welcome and at home. Soul Food’s initiatives are also changing the narrative around migrants and refugees, while providing equitable opportunities for their young members.
Soul Food has collaborated with the artist Madiakham on several projects, including an exhibition last year to celebrate the organization’s 5 th anniversary. Since part of the organization’s ethos is inspiring young Soul Food members to fulfill their greatest potential by showing them what is possible, working with artists who have similar cultural backgrounds to them is a priority.
In June 2023, Madiakham animated a painting workshop, using her then-unfinished piece as an example, guiding young Soul Food members as they learned basic painting skills, but also giving them the freedom to express themselves.