Zakee Shariff
Fashion, art & collaborating with made jewellery
Zakee Shariff is guided by intuition to follow her path, her light, to create art and enrich the lives of those around her in so many ways. Graphic prints are translated into fashion collections for the wearer to feel special and unique, and her latest collection is more elegant and refined than ever.
The process of collaboration is something which Zakee loves and her recent collaboration with ethical jewellery brand - Made - shines brightly. The fact that Made’s production is in Kenya, a place special to Zakee’s heart, is one of the reasons she felt the collaboration was meant to be. Working with traditional craftsmen, using Masai beading and recycled glass Zakee has created a colourful contemporary collection for Made.
In this beautifully honest and open podcast episode we talk to Zakee about; Made jewellery, the challenges of working within the fashion industry, her views on spirituality, and how she strives to create balance in her artistic practice and life.
“I just really want someone when they put something of mine on, whether it be a t-shirt or an expensive silk dress to just feel really special in it, and to feel unique and different in it. ”
“I’ve had so many experiences that I can’t explain that have led me to believe in something a lot bigger than myself.”
“I want to work with manufacturers that I can evolve with and they can evolve with me, and we can all grow from the whole experience. That’s what was wonderful about working with Made, was working with these amazing craftsmen and women and using a lot of their traditional techniques.”
“I love being given boundaries, because as a creative I think it’s my job to bust those open creatively, to work within them but create something really special within those boundaries.”
all photos by bec o'conner
podcast recording & photos taken at zakee shariff's studio in north west london
NOTES
To discuss stocking Zakee Shariff's latest fashion collection contact July Rollings
Link to buy Zakee Shariff for Made Jewellery
17.07.2017