The Miami Design District, in collaboration with Design Miami Curatorial Lab, is celebrating the 10th Annual Design Commission in a big way with “Pearl Jam,” a breathtaking installation by award-winning designer Nicole Nomsa Moyo. This year’s showcase will debut just in time for Miami Art Week and promises to captivate audiences through early 2025, with additional displays at Design Miami’s flagship fair on Miami Beach. Pearl Jam is more than just an art installation; it’s a journey through the vivid aesthetic of Southern Africa’s Ndebele tribe, reimagined in an immersive, interactive experience that embodies both cultural tradition and modern design.
Born in Zimbabwe, raised in South Africa, and now based in Toronto, Moyo has spent over a decade crafting a portfolio that’s earned international recognition. Her work often draws on her Southern African roots, and Pearl Jam is a vibrant tribute to her heritage. Inspired by the bold patterns and colors characteristic of the Ndebele people, this installation features four large-scale, jewelry-inspired experiences scattered throughout the Miami Design District. From towering pearl clusters and a sprawling bracelet to a deconstructable necklace and earrings that dangle elegantly from the trees, each piece invites viewers to engage with art in a dynamic and tangible way.
Reflecting on Pearl Jam, Moyo describes her creation as an expression of personal and cultural history that resonates with the universal language of creativity. “Pearl Jam came from within,” says Moyo. “I reflected on the rich tapestry of my cultural heritage, merging it with contemporary design to create a narrative that both honors and transforms tradition.” This blend of past and present speaks through each vibrant, geometric element, bringing the Ndebele aesthetic into a new context while connecting with audiences across cultures.
In an effort to honor and uplift the artistry of Ndebele women, Moyo’s installation incorporates over 1,000 hand-crafted earrings created by indigenous women in Southern Africa. Each piece is made using locally sourced materials and traditional techniques, adding layers of authenticity and meaning to the project. These meticulously crafted earrings embody the skill and creativity passed down through generations, carrying a story of empowerment and cultural heritage from Southern Africa to the heart of Miami.
Sustainability also plays a central role in Pearl Jam. The larger ‘pearls’ are made from sustainable materials designed to withstand the outdoor environment, while the intricately crafted ‘earrings’ reflect the artistry of human hands. “This year’s installation honors exceptional human skill,” explains Grela Orihuela, Senior VP of Fairs at Design Miami, “and offers a unique opportunity to share the creativity of Ndebele women with the world.” Orihuela emphasized the importance of preserving these age-old crafts while reimagining them in a modern setting, a mission that Moyo’s work fulfills beautifully.
Visitors can look forward to a truly unique experience as Pearl Jam intertwines with the pathways, trees, and architecture of the Miami Design District, adding bursts of energy to the vibrant neighborhood during one of its busiest times of the year. As Miami Art Week kicks off, Moyo’s visionary work will be a centerpiece, blending cultural storytelling, innovative design, and community engagement.
“Each winter, our Design Commission breathes new life into Miami’s art scene,” says Craig Robins, President and CEO of DACRA. “This year, Nicole Nomsa Moyo’s installation celebrates the intersection of creativity, culture, and innovation, injecting our community with a surge of energy.” As Pearl Jam captivates audiences well into 2025, visitors will have a chance to experience this stunning tribute to Southern African culture and the universal language of design.
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