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PRESENTED BY THESTREETSARECOLD // THE CLASS OF 2021 // Akiya by Erah
BY EMIL POPLAWSKI
FEBRUARY 21 2021
THESTREETSARECOLD PRESENTS, THE CLASS OF 2021, A LONDON FASHION WEEK PROJECT SHOWCASING OUR PICK OF THE 2021 UNDERGROUND CREATIVE TALENT WITHIN THE FASHION INDUSTRY. BACK IN 2021, REBRANDED WE PRESENT AKIYA
Give us a brief introduction to AKIYA
Akiya is a Nigerian artist, who lives between Lagos and London. Akiya is highly fascinated with hand-made pieces, especially knitwear, rugs and hand-painted clothing. Every piece is made with dedication, self-confidence and fluidity amongst calculation. I only release items that I am truly satisfied with, so my customers and supporters solely get the best version of Akiya.
AKIYA
ERICA EZEOGU
WHY WILL 2021 BE YOUR YEAR?
2021 is my year because it is the product of the hard work and lessons of 2020. It is the aftermath of trial and error, and non-stop pressure.
AKIYA
ERICA EZEOGU
what is akiya really about and What is it’s latest FEat?
Akiya is not just the material, Akiya is a mindset because if one can think. they can be. I also believe that It’s not about you wearing ‘Akiya’ but how you wear ‘Akiya’. I think this goes for clothing in general because you can literally put two people in the room, wearing the exact same fit, but one may be perceived to ‘look’ better than the other, just by how they wear and carry themselves in the piece(s).
Akiya is gradually releasing the SS21 NKEMNKEM pieces which mostly consist of knitted sweaters and sweater vests that highlight ‘wealth’ and confidence in oneself. I display the Naira sign (Nigerian currency) on the chest to signify wealth in money, love, health, blessings, etc.
What was the inspiration behind these pieces?
My main inspiration behind these pieces is my traditional name. Funny story, my grandmothers both unknowingly blessed me with the same name ‘Nkem’ which roughly translates to ‘what is mine will be with me’. I truly appreciate the name and believe it defines me (literally ask any of my friends). So, I decided to dive into a route of wealth that is sure of itself in its ways. It is not just about money o! We can be rich in love, opportunities, health, etc. So these pieces accentuate that. I also aimed to place it into knitwear and cozy wear that is versatile when worn. So, with reference to my photos, it can be worn as streetwear, smart casual, however you see fit.
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO SOMEONE STARTING OUT / THINKING ABOUT DOING SO?
Keep going. Whether you are sprinting for it, walking, or even crawling. Keep going for it. Practice and revise your ideas and make sure your pieces are 100% you. Remember it is also ok to take breaks because all work and no play makes jack dull boy!
Secondly, stay in your own lane, in fact, in your own race. In this digital age where there is a constant overwhelming exhibition of people creating, one can almost expect to feel discouraged and like they are ‘slow’ sometimes. But keep in mind that they are them and you are you. Do not let it steer your head left and right. As long as you keep a firm focus and love for what you do, you will be ok.
Have your pieces transcend beyond the physical by showing your personality through it, not just what the next person or everybody else is doing
Lastly, don’t be discouraged when you do not have all the materials needed to make a piece. Use what you have, save and invest. Things come with time and belief.
FOR A CLOSER LOOK AT AKIYA BY ERAH CHECK OUT THE BELOW:
BE SURE TO CHECK OUT THE CLASS OF 2021:
@THESTREETSARECOLD
@THESTREETSARECOLDMAG
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