For this prototype, Khumo Morojele and Mbangiso Mabaso have created three experimental looks which aim to minimise waste in the design and manufacturing process using 3D software. This software, including blender, Clo3D, and Unity, is used as tools to reduce fabric waste. They also allow the user to be immersed in an interactive virtual world where they can engage with the sustainable garments through a unique African digital lens.

With the use of Virtual Reality headsets and controllers as well as software hosting the virtual world, including Mona and VRCHAT, the user can enter into and further interact with a decorative landscape. This includes the mountains of Cape Town, and a futuristic Johannesburg with skyscrapers and flying Siyaya taxis transporting users between showrooms. The garments are exhibited on black avatars that walk on runways and stand on podium pedestals shaped like Coca-Cola crates that you can find on the streets of Johannesburg.

All aspects of the virtual world, from the showroom to the garments, drive a narrative told by an entire team of Black creatives and artists. Their work also emphasises the importance of representation.

by Khumo Morojele and Mbangiso Mabaso

Format: Virtual Reality

CREDITS

Design and Art Director | Khumo Morojele

Photographer | Luke Ncube

Models | Senamiso Ndlovu, Lombe Khosa, and Taylor Makhoba

Production Assistant | Makhosazana Gibbs

Virtual World Developer | Sisanda Tech

Studio and Location | Holly Hok’s/Mishaal’s Studio

The Design Futures Lab is a creative economy project, hosted by Electric South, Twyg, and Crossover Labs and supported by the British Council #SouthernAfricaArts. The Design Futures Lab was held in March 2022 and this is one of nine prototypes completed in June 2022.