Abebe, 1975

I believe that graphic design should encapsulate humanity as a whole and not solely place value on things through a Western lens. Graphic design is a form of language. It utilizes various forms such as structure, color, and arrangement to communicate ideas. My initial perception of graphic design seemed a bit too narrow and boxed in. I focused mainly on marketing uses, but now I see graphic design as something so vast that it can’t comfortably fit within a single definition. Graphic design can be seen in tattoos, braids, scarification, or in ancient cave art. Initially, I wasn’t aware that these things would be considered graphic design. Graphic design should be a reflection of creativity, not being held back and boxed in depending on what hegemonic structures decide to label as worthy of being valued.

This piece is by J.D. 'Okhai Ojeikere, a Nigerian photographer who spent decades of his life documenting facets of Nigerian culture, including hairstyles.