Again, the roots of culture bear fruit, and one can tell that Dukun was unafraid to tell stories about its heritage. By being true to itself, Dukun attracted a community of people who understood its vision and were bold enough to make a statement. While other designers pride themselves on getting their fabric from various parts of the world, Temisan sources his fabrics from Lagos. He says that it is a matter of putting smiles on the faces of the merchants. He says that when they see the masterpieces he creates with the fabrics he got from them, they are proud, and he is also putting money back into his host community. Additionally, Temisan says that it is important that Dukun show the possibilities of creations that lie within these fabrics, as they are often overlooked. Beyond Stitching: Design for Validation and Climate Change Even celebrities have donned Dukun, one such example being Afrobeat superstar Fireboy. Anyone could easily assume that styling celebrities would give Temisan the validation he needed as a fashion designer, but validation for him is seeing Dukun community members returning to buy more outfits. Temisan vibes better with a South African tune; he is partial to Afro House, Afro-jazz, and other subgenres. He attributes that to his mum, who was also in love with South African tunes. If you find Temisan creating, you may find him listening to the EP Umvulo, by Thando Zide—his current vibe. Tesmisan is not worried about not having a space in the fashion industry. “Identity plays an important role in standing out because your experiences are peculiar to you, and if you tap into them, they will shape what you create and help you stand out.” As Dukun continues to tap into its roots and the vision that Temisan has for the brand, he hopes that in the next few years, Dukun will need no introduction and be easily identified by enthusiasts and stakeholders. This certainty and identity that Dukun has established made it possible for Temisan to work in Creative Development in collaboration with The Assembly Hub Lagos, where they took part in a climate project using fashion as a tool. The project was centred around creating fictional solar punk characters who, facing climate change issues, could harness materials readily
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