BEHIND THE STITCH: ALANI
June 21, 2024
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The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York has unveiled its highly anticipated exhibition, Pirouette: Turning Points in Design, a comprehensive showcase exploring groundbreaking moments in design history. Among the standout features are the works of renowned Nigerian designer Nifemi Marcus-Bello, whose innovative creations are displayed alongside other iconic design milestones. The exhibition, which opened on January 26, 2025, celebrates pivotal contributions to the field of design, focusing on how creative ingenuity reshapes industries and culture. Bello’s inclusion marks a significant milestone for African designers on the global stage.
© Marcus Bello
Bello, best known for his multidisciplinary approach that seamlessly blends industrial design with cultural storytelling, has gained international acclaim for his ability to merge form, function, and narrative. Two of his most celebrated pieces, the Oríkì Chair and the Eko Table, are centerpieces of the exhibition. The Oríkì Chair, inspired by Yoruba heritage and crafted from sustainable materials, exemplifies Bello’s commitment to preserving cultural heritage while addressing global sustainability concerns. The Eko Table, on the other hand, is a sleek and modern reinterpretation of traditional Nigerian design aesthetics, featuring intricate detailing that pays homage to Lagos’ bustling streets. Both pieces demonstrate how Bello bridges the gap between traditional African craftsmanship and contemporary global design trends.
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Curated by MoMA’s chief design curator, Alice Jenkins, Pirouette: Turning Points in Design features over 150 works, including pieces by Charles and Ray Eames, Dieter Rams , Zaha Hadid, and Isamu Noguchi. Jenkins highlighted Bello’s work as a “celebration of how design can act as a cultural dialogue,” emphasizing the importance of showcasing designers from diverse backgrounds. The exhibition is arranged thematically, with each section addressing a different transformative era in design. Bello’s pieces are featured in the “Cultural Renaissance” section, which highlights the role of design in fostering identity, representation, and cultural preservation.
© Marcus Bello
The inclusion of Bello’s work in Pirouette has sparked excitement within the design community, particularly among emerging African designers who see this as a step toward greater global recognition. “It’s an honor to be part of this exhibition,” Bello said at the opening reception. “My work has always been about telling our stories and showing the world the beauty of African design. To have it recognized at MoMA is a dream come true.” The exhibition will run until 18 October, 2025, with a series of workshops, panel discussions, and guided tours scheduled to explore the themes of the showcase. Bello’s presence at the exhibition underscores his growing influence as a key figure in the global design landscape.
