CREATIVE
AFRICA
Celebrating Creativity in Ivory Coast:
The Visionary Work of Jean Servais Somian
In the heart of Grand-Bassam, a city renowned for its rich cultural heritage and artisanal excellence, Jean Servais Somian has carved out a unique space for himself as a furniture designer and sculptor. His journey, which spans continents and cultures, is a testament to the fusion of tradition and contemporary design, encapsulating the vibrant pulse of Ivorian creativity.
The Journey of a Master Craftsman
Jean Servais Somian’s formative years were spent between Côte d'Ivoire and Switzerland, where he honed his skills at the Georges GHANDOUR woodworking and cabinetry centre in Abidjan, the artisanal centre of Grand-Bassam, and later at the Daniel Beck design agency in Lausanne. This blend of African and European influences is evident in his creations, which are characterised by their unique, hybrid nature.
Somian's pieces, produced in limited editions, are not only functional but also verge on the sculptural, showcasing a deep respect for ancestral craftsmanship. His designs often feature materials like coconut wood, ebony, and amazakoue, alongside repurposed everyday African objects such as basins, sponges, and old fishing canoes. This innovative approach results in striking furniture with clean lines and a deep sense of cultural identity.
A Contemporary Touch with Ancestral Roots
Somian’s work is distinguished by its contemporary design that retains a strong connection to ancestral roots. The use of coconut wood, in particular, is both a nod to sustainability and a challenge due to its hardness and fragility. Somian collaborates with local blacksmiths to create custom tools, allowing him to shape this challenging material into elegant, sinuous forms that are both functional and artistically profound.
His process involves preserving the innate strength of the coconut tree while creating varying apertures or ‘windows’ in the wood. This method not only highlights the natural beauty of the material but also infuses each piece with a unique personality and aesthetic appeal. The result is furniture that embodies both sobriety of function and subtlety of form, bridging the gap between utility and art.
Global Recognition and Exhibitions
Jean Servais Somian’s work has garnered international acclaim, with exhibitions across Africa, Europe, the United States, and Latin America. His pieces have been showcased at prestigious venues such as the Biennale de l’Art Africain Contemporain in Dakar, the Musée du Quai Branly in Paris, and the 1:54 Contemporary African Art Fair in London.
In 2018, Somian established his design studio in Grand-Bassam, solidifying his commitment to creating and promoting Ivorian art and design. From this studio, he continues to draw inspiration from West Africa’s rich heritage and the long-standing tradition of wood carving, infusing his creations with a sense of place and identity.
A Glimpse into Somian’s Creative Space
The attached photograph offers a glimpse into the creative space of Jean Servais Somian. The scene is a harmonious blend of traditional and contemporary elements, reflecting Somian’s design philosophy. The furniture pieces, with their bold colours and innovative shapes, stand out against the minimalist backdrop, highlighting the designer's ability to blend aesthetics with functionality.
The vibrant floor mat, the sculptural side table with its circular cutouts, and the comfortable seating arrangements all speak to Somian's mastery in creating pieces that are both visually striking and deeply rooted in cultural narratives. Each element in the space tells a story, inviting viewers to explore the intricate beauty and complexity of Ivorian creativity.
Embracing Creativity and Heritage
Jean Servais Somian’s work is a celebration of creativity in Ivory Coast, embodying the essence of Ivorian culture and the spirit of innovation. His journey from Côte d'Ivoire to Switzerland and back has enriched his perspective, allowing him to create pieces that are not only functional but also deeply meaningful. Through his unique approach to design, Somian continues to elevate Ivorian art, showcasing the beauty of heritage and the endless possibilities of creativity.
As we celebrate the vibrant creativity of Ivory Coast, we are reminded of the importance of preserving and promoting cultural heritage. Jean Servais Somian’s work serves as an inspiration, demonstrating how tradition and modernity can coexist beautifully, creating a legacy that resonates across generations.